2 computers to eithernet

First time poster, and hope this is the correct section for this question. First of all, I'm retired and mostly use these for e-mails, surfin', etc. Just got a laptop for Christmas, something to take to the coffeshop and on vacation. My main computer is a desktop with DSL service from AT&T thru an eithernet modum to the desk top. How can I have a second cable from the modem for my laptop? I don't plan to use them both at the same time, just trying to get around crawling behind the desk top to unplug the eithernet cable when I want to use the laptop. Is an eithernet switch what I need?

 

What i recommend is to get a wireless router. With a router you can have your desktop on and being used and your laptop can connect wirelessly anywhere in your home. It is very convenient and they are not very expensive.

 

So, do I get a WI-FI adapter for the desk top, to pickup the signal also ?

 

An ethernet switch would be fine, though a router is generally a safer option. Some ISPs (the company that offers your DSL and/or Cable) charge you extra money for each computer that connects directly to your modem. This means that a switch *could* result in another 10 dollars tacked onto your monthly DSL bill. This isn't very common anymore, so it shouldn't be too big a deal.

Otherwise, a router allows you to split the ethernet connection from the internet and offer it to any computer connected to the router. The router also allows you to easily network your desktop and laptop if you so desire. In addition, routers generally include a hardware based firewall system, giving you an added layer of defense against malware on the internet.

If you end up getting a wireless router, and not just a wired one, (I'm betting your laptop can do at least wireless 802.11g) you can connect your desktop to one of the 4 ethernet ports on the router, and have your laptop connect wirelessly, allowing you to move it all around the house without a cord.

Here is a decent wireless router I'd recommend
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16833124284

And your midrange (probably the best value and sweet spot)
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16833127220

If you want to go a bit more overboard, check out this one
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16833127215&Tpk=DIR-655

 

Most cheapest would be a simple ethernet switch, it simply splits your 1 cable into many. Allowing you to connect several PC's depening on how many outputs there are on the switch. You'll need a second UTP cable t your laptop also.

 

No, you would plug the desktop in to the router with a wire and then the laptop would be wireless since it already has built in wifi.

 

Many thanks for the quick answers. It looks like I'll go with a wireless router, and the ones that StormEffect suggested are within my budget. I was not aware that you could plug a computer into a Wifi router.

 

I recommend the 1st router he linked - the Linksys/Cisco one. I have it and it is very simple to set up and hasn't caused me any problems.

 

I got the Linksys router. Wired my desktop to the router and the laptop works perfect, wireless, all over the house. Many thanks.

 

Glad to hear it works