How to Share an Internal DSL Connection

DSL modems can only connect to one device at a time. A simple process exists for splitting the connection between two or more devices.

With the declining price of home computers, many Internet users choose to use more than one computer in the house for the sake of convenience. If you decide to do this, you will most likely find yourself in the position of needing to split or "share" your home Internet connection between multiple computers and other devices. This is a simple process that can be applied to any connection type, including DSL, cable modem, T1 or similar setups, and can be achieved by even the least technically-inclined person.

Things You'll Need

• 2 Ethernet cables

Instructions

1. Purchase a router. Since DSL modems will only be able to support a connection to one device at a time, a router allows multiple devices to share the same Internet connection. Wired routers are quite affordable but carry the disadvantage of having to connect Ethernet cables to every device that will use the Internet. Wireless routers eliminate this problem but are also typically much more expensive. Make a decision as to what type of router would be appropriate for you and purchase it.

2. Connect the modem to the router. Right now, you most likely have an Ethernet cable connecting your DSL modem up to one computer. Disconnect it from the computer and plug it into the Ethernet port on your router labeled "Internet," "WAN" or the port that is colored yellow.

3. Connect the router to the computer. Take the second Ethernet cable and connect it from one of the numbered Ethernet ports on the back of your router to one of the Ethernet ports on your computer.

4. Configure the router. This is done by typing the router's local access IP address into the address bar of an Internet browser. You will see the router's configuration page, where you can configure the router to your specific connection type. The connection settings to be used vary greatly depending on your connection type and on the brand of router you purchased. Contact your router's manufacturer or your DSL provider's technical support department with any questions you may have.

5. Use the Internet. Once the router has been configured for your connection type, you are free to use the shared Internet connection between as many devices as your router will allow.

Resources

• SmallBusinessComputing.com: Sharing Your DSL Connection, the Inside Story