help, how do I connect a 2nd pc to my internet?

17 years ago

we have a pc (Windows XP) connected to the internet, another pc (windows 98) in our basement is not connected. how can I get the 2nd pc to share my internet service?

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Comments (3)

zep516
17 years ago
The Windows 98 should be version (98SE) if not it could be trouble. What is the version?

The Windows XP Machine how is that currently connected as in Hi speed cable modem, or a dial up network.
bpgreen
17 years ago
I'm not sure I'd want to connect a Windows 98 PC to the internet. It's no longer a supported OS so it is likely to have security issues.

What kind of internet service you you have?

I'll give instructions that assume some sort of broadband (DSL, cable, FIOS etc).

If that's the case, you have some sort of device plugged into the line that then is connected to the PC by a network cable.

You'll need to by a router. There are basically two options here.

You can get something that is wired, which might be a little less money. The drawback is then you'll need to run wires to the other PC and if you ever move it, you'll need to run wires to the new location. By the time you run the wires, even if you buy the parts and do the work yourself, the cost advantage may be gone.

The second option is to buy a wireless router. Since you also need to connect your existing PC, you'll want one with some wired ports on it (most have several). You'll also probably need to buy a wireless card for the windows 98 PC. When you do, make sure it has drivers for Windows 98. Windows 98 is no longer supported by MS, so it may be difficult to find cards with drivers. If the PC has USB ports, the easiest approach is to get a USB wireless card. If you don't have USB ports, you can buy a card that plugs into the motherboard.

Plug the router in to the modem and plug the XP PC into it. Configure it for your internet service if necessary. Also configure it to use encryption. WPA is best, WEP is a distant second best. Connect the USB card to the 98 PC. If you don't have USB, unplug the PC, open the case and plug in the card. Install all of the drivers according to the instructions that came with it. Configure it with the same security as the router.

Now you should be ready to go.
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I truly appreciate all your help mikie!It is so difficult for me to explain exactly what is going on.I only know computer basics and just enough terminology to be confusing. LOL Currently,I am connecting to the internet by going to Earthlink.net and clicking on the set up button. I am accessing my e-mail through Earthlink.net, too. That is the only way I can connect to webpages.I can no longer connect using on desktop icons or by going to internet connections. The problem started when I allowed a Belkin auto setup to program my wireless router to my computer. Even if I disconnect the router and try to connect the way I did before the router I still can not connect through my computer. The only reason I mentioned proxy server was that when earthlink had me join teamviewer4, teamviewer4 stated I was on a proxy server and that I needed to connect with my computer connection. I am basing my statement on that info. I may not be on a proxy server. Is connecting through Earthlink.net connecting to a proxy server? I have not called earthlink back yet as the tech seems to get frustrated with my problem before it can be corrected. Also, it is a minimum 1 hour call each time.
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ess1
Original Author
17 years ago
it is 98SE. I have DSL hook up.
the main use for the 2nd pc will be for my younger children who like to visit websites to play games , color, puzzles etc.

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help, how do I connect a 2nd pc to my internet?

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zep516

bpgreen

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help, how do I connect a 2nd pc to my internet?

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zep516

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