Computer Bytes - No. 18 Today it is common for families to have more than 1 car. Therefore we should not be surprised that having multiple computers in a home is also quickly becoming the norm. However, while you may have more than 1 computer, you may not want to have to have separate printers for each, or you may find that you would like to share your satellite or DSL Internet connection between the computers. The sharing of equipment and Internet service is not only economical but also easily accomplished by making use one of the following three devices - Hub, Switch or Router, if you do not have wireless accessibility. Hub is a 'blanket' term used to describe any device where connections meet. And while you could use a Hub to connect two or more computers, this is not a recommended method. Using a Hub for connecting computers means that all information is shared at the same time so that usage tends to become congested and slow. A Switch is a little better than a Hub since it will send out information to the appropriate device only. However, if you want to have two printers hooked to the same computer, ie, black ink printer for text and color ink printer for photographs - you might find that a switch is just what you need to switch back and forth from printer to printer as needed. A Router is a more sophisticated device than a hub or a switch. It most likely will be a small box-like piece of equipment that more than one computer can connect to. It usually has ports on the front or back for connecting, a power connection, and may have lights to display activity status. If you want to connect more than one computer to your DSL or Satellite Internet connection, it is recommended that you use a router. By using a Router for making this connection you would connect all home computers to the router allowing it to perform gateway functions equally. This means that more than one person at a time can access the Internet connection. The type of Router that you will need to connect multiple computers to the Internet should be a Cable/DSL Router. It should also be identified as Ethernet - USB. If you are planning on installing any of the above devices, check your User's Manual, verify System Requirements for the device before purchasing and check with store personnel whether or not additional cables are needed. While Hubs, Switches, and Routers may sound confusing, once set-up they can make using the computer quicker, easier and more fun for everyone. Moncrief Web2 Home Page Moncrief Web Design Computer Bytes Index Web Design | Search Engine Optimization | Site Maintenance & Management | Request Information | About Us ~ Sample Sites Send Us an Email | Home Page Copyright 2007 MWD. All rights reserved. Computer Bytes articles may not be reprinted, published, quoted, copied, or used in any manner whatsoever without the expressed written permission of David Moncrief.