Brevard Users Group - Home Networking

Home Networking Firewall Routers TCP/IP Protocol Gateway Hub
Detailed map of a home ethernet sub-network using cable modem, TCP/IP protocols,
firewalls routers, 6-port hubs, print servers, and RJ-45 Cat-5 cables
Cable Network Home Networking
Windows® Based Client Computers
    In order to access the internet on all Windows® based client computers connected to the Residential Gateway, they must be all configured with TCP/IP. Configure Network properties as follows:
  • TCP/IP properties.
    • DNS Configuration:
      • Disable DNS.
    • Gateway:
      • None
    • WINS configuration:
      • Disable WINS resolution.
    • IP Address:
      • Obtain an IP address automatically.
    • Bindings:
      • File and printer sharing (use with firewall).
    • Advanced:
      • Set this protocol to be the default protocol.
    • NetBIOS:
      • Default
  • Identification:
    • Computer name:
      • Each client must have a unique name.
    • Workgroup
      • Must also be assigned to the same workgroup.

     Remember to remove all unused protocols from Windows® Network Configuration. Un-bind the "file and printer sharing" in the TCP/IP protocols to avoid sharing them on the internet (unless you are behind a firewall)! Using TCP/IP protocol and a firewall will allow all Clients full access to all SHARED hard drives, cd-rom drives, floppy drives, printers in your network, while keeping them invisible to the Global Network (internet)!
Gateway Hardware
    Several companies sell a 4 port switched hub that is also a router and gateway, including DHCP and DNS services, for about $90. If you have 4 or fewer computers, this fills the role of a switching hub, and for only $20-30 more also provides the gateway, complete with DHCP and DNS services. The Cable Modem or DSL line plugs directly into a special port on this box, so you don't need dual network cards in any computer. If you have more than 4 computers, you can plug another hub into this device. It supports VPN clients (both IPSec and PPTP). Logging is provided but limited. Port mapping (to allow certain types of messages through the firewall) is available but awkward. Linksys can upgrade the device with new firmware, but it cannot run other gateway programs. Best of all, it does not use any existing computer on your network for gateway services. If your requirements are simple, it is a great way to go.
 


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Home Networking Firewall Routers TCP/IP Protocol Gateway Hub