www.gateway.com49Attached to the router are all of your computers or Ethernet-ready devices. Also connected tothe router is a cable or DSL modem that provides access to the Internet.Equipment you need for a router-based 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 equipmentWhen buying your router, be sure the model includes everything your network needs, including:• Internet security features, such as a firewall, to protect your network from unwantedintruders• 4-port switch to eliminate the need for additional network hardware• DHCP server/dynamic IP address assignment to automatically configure network and IPaddressesDetermining if an Ethernet card is already installed on your computerTo determine if an Ethernet card is already installed on your computer:1 Click (Start), then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens.2 Click System and Maintenance, then click System.ImportantTo add the ability to access a wireless Ethernet network to your wired Ethernetnetwork, connect an access point to the router or use a router that has a built-in accesspoint.ImportantFor best results, all Ethernet components should be either standard Ethernet (10Mbps), Fast Ethernet (100 Mbps or 10/100), or Gigabit Ethernet (1000 Mbps or10/100/1000). A mixture of components rated at different speeds will result in yournetwork running at the speed of the slowest rated component.Cable/DSLmodemRouter
