XP Host or Gateway

[Robert]

I would like to use my XP machine as a gateway or host, and then connect my
other computer(s), all of which are win98se, to the internet through the
host computer (Internet Connection Sharing). Is it possible to connect the
host to the cable modem using a USB cable? The cable modem has both a USB
2.0 and an Ethernet (cat5) plugs.

I can connect the host computer via a Ethernet (cat5) cable to the cable
modem and get that machine online.

I have the following listed in my network connections (on the host computer)
when I have the cable modem connected to the computer using a USB cable:

1)Local Area Connection 2
Connected
RCA USB Cable Modem

2) 1394 Connection
Connected
1394 Network Connection

3) Local Area Connection
Network Cable Unplugged
Intel(R) Pro/100 ve network

 

[Jack]

Hi

You can use the USB and configure the WinXP computer as the Host computers
using ICS.

However you are much better Of (better Internet, better LAN, and much more
Network flexibility) investing $20 in a Cable/DSL Router, and sharing
through Hardware.

The content of the following links will provide you with a basic tutorial
about Sharing Internet and using Wireless; it is short and to the point.

The pages were written ages ago. Ignore the prices, and the specific choice
of hardware, stick with the principles they are still Valid.

Basic Options for Internet Connection Sharing -
http://www.anandtech.com/guides/viewfaq.html?i=105

Hubs, routers, switches, DSL, LANs, WANs...? -
http://www.anandtech.com/guides/viewfaq.html?i=48

Wireless Principles - http://www.anandtech.com/guides/viewfaq.html?i=122

The whole thing should like like this,

http://www.ezlan.net/network/router.jpg

Jack (MVP-Networking).

 

[Robert]

Thanks for the reply.

I should have made it clear(er) that I understand the hardware and how to
set-up ICS. My issue is that I can't seem to connect to the internet while
using the USB to link the cable modem to the XP machine (even though when I
look in "My Network Connections" it shows the USB Cable Modem "is"
connected).

Is there something in the settings that I need to turn on? Bridge the
connection (just something I noticed in the list of items when I right click
on the different network connections)?

Thanks again,
Robert

 

[Jack]

Hi

Bridging is Not related to this issue.

Might be an authentication problem.

Most Cable Internet provider authenticate with the MAC address of the NIC
that is installed in the computer that it was used for the initial setup.

Your connection works with the Ethernet Card, which means that the Ethernet
card Mac is the “Password”. When you connect the USB to the Modem it can
not obtain a connection because it is another MAC number. (
http://www.ezlan.net/broadband.html ).

With a Router the Correct number can be cloned into the Routers logon
settings.

Otherwise find the USB’s MAC number, call the ISP and ask to change the
authentication.

Jack (MVP-Networking).