89www.gateway.comIntroduction to networkingExample router-based wired Ethernet networkThe following is an example of a wired Ethernet network. The network is made up of arouter, a cable or DSL modem, your computers, and cables connecting each of thesecomponents. The router is the central control point for the network. Attached to the routerare all of your computers or Ethernet-ready devices. Also connected to the router is a cableor DSL modem that provides access to the Internet.Equipment you need for a router-based wired Ethernet networkFor a wired Ethernet network you need:■ Two or more computers with Ethernet jacks■ One router■ One broadband Internet connection (optional)■ Ethernet cables connecting all of the network equipmentTips & TricksTo add the ability to access a wireless Ethernet network to your wiredEthernet network, connect an access point to the router or use arouter that has a built-in access point, such as the Linksys wirelessaccess point router with 4-port switch. For more information aboutaccessing a wireless Ethernet, see “Using a wireless Ethernetnetwork” on page 83.Cable/DSLmodemRouter
