I have two computers which will be connected to Broadband ADSL2 via a modem. How do I use both laptops (one dedicated to committee work) on the one modem. IE do I change switches into the modem - is it as simple as that? All advice appreciated. Thanks. gerry ashton

Well, assuming you don't want wireless or any fancy stuff like that, and you only have one ethernet port in the back of the ADSL modem, you need an ethernet hub or switch. I picked one up from Supershed (the reuse warehouse) for $5 and while it's only 10Mbit/s not 100, it's good enough for me.

Here's a picture of a switch. There is a difference between hubs and switches but you probably don't need to worry about that if you're only using 2 computers. Those connectors are where you plug the ethernet cables. Hubs are cheaper because they're less complicated.



But if you go into a computer shop and explain what you want to do, they will be able to find you a hub, another cable or two and explain how to connect them. It's pretty straightforward, and I can show you a picture of my two PCs and the hub if you like.