The Ethernet cable from my internet wall jack goes to a hub which then splits it up into two Ethernet cables leading to my desktop and another PC. The cable going to my desktop connects to my first LAN port while the second desktop LAN port connects my desktop/laptop with an Ethernet cable.I've managed to setup a private network and share files/folders between my desktop/laptop, but I was not able to find a way to share the internet conenction, besides, the network disappears when i disconnect the cable connecting my desktop/laptop.What I want is a network which would allow me to access the internet with my laptop and it should also be a permanent network in the sense that it shouldn't disappear when something is disconnected, how do you do this? asdf

asdfasdfasdfasdf2asdf said:What I want is a network which would allow me to access the internet with my laptop and it should also be a permanent network in the sense that it shouldn't disappear when something is disconnected, how do you do this? asdf What you need to do is replace the switch with a router, and disable ICS on the machine that's currently running that.You'll then have a proper permanent LAN in place.What's your budget?You want wireless (either now, or in the future), yes?Assuming that you're in the U.S., my recommendations:budget: Linksys WRT-54GS or WRT-54GLnotsobudget (but, not stupid-spendy): D-Link DIR-655[If this post helps to resolve your issue, please click the "Mark as Answer" or "Helpful" button at the top of this message. By marking a post as Answered, or Helpful you help others find the answer faster.]

Actually I've got two new factory-sealed D-Link DI-524 wireless routers sent to me by my ISP (they keep sending them to me for some reason), but my switch has always worked perfect and if I plug in a 3rd cable and connect my laptop to it it still works well. I don't like wireless home networks because of how easy it is for someone close enough to get unauthorized access to them.So maybe I could run a software-router on my desktop which would unite the internet traffic from both my laptop and my desktop into the cable going to the switch?Otherwise I guess I could just buy a long Ethernet cable and have all the three PCs hooked up to the switch and use Bluetooth for intercommunication between my laptop/desktop.asdf

Respectfully, you're way overthinking things, and way overcomplicating your setup.Internet Connection Sharing (your 'software-router on your desktop) is a little iffy, and really isn't meant to be used as a permanent solution.If you're concerned about someone cracking your wireless, there are solutions:Don't use WEP. It's basically no encryption. WPA is rather difficult (read: very time-consuming) to crack; WPA2 is currently unbreakable.Or, you can simply disable the wireless on the router. Can't crack it if it's not even on. :)Honestly, I'm surprised that your current setup is working as well as it is. Most ISPs don't allow more than one device to be on a residential connnection. (note: router = 1 device, they can't see anything behind it. 3 computers, connected to a switch that, in turn, is connected to the modem = 3 devices.)HTH,Chris[If this post helps to resolve your issue, please click the "Mark as Answer" or "Helpful" button at the top of this message. By marking a post as Answered, or Helpful you help others find the answer faster.]

You have 2 methods to set up your network and share Internet connection:1) Set up an Ethernet home network by getting a router, check more on this home network setup tutorial to help you. 2) Enable Internet Connection Sharing on the computer that is connected to Internet, also this computer must has another network connection to other computer. Hope this helps..