Connecting comp to internet through another comp

[modena]

I have a computer wirelessly connected to the internet (connect directly to the wireless router). I want to get a second computer on the internet, however I need to connect this second computer to the internet through the first computer with a network cord. Both computers have ethernet cards and run windows XP, how would I set this up? Thanks!

[SecretIkon]

If your computer is connected to the wireless router...you can just connect your other computer (which is corded) into the wireless router and it should automatically connect to the interent without any configuration.

[modena]

the wireless router and the computer that needs to get on the internet are far apart and would have to run through the center of my house, that is why I want to hook up the one computer through the computer that is wirelessly connected (so that I have to run a much shorter cord).

[AlpineJay]

You just need to set up internet service sharing on WinXP. This is done through you adding a second network card (or just using your existing one if your computer is wirelessly connected) and porting your connection that's coming in through the wireless to the wired network card. You then need to pick up a crossover cable (at CC for ~8 bucks for a 7-footer) and probably use a modular RJ-45 coupler to extend the cable (just a regular Cat5 Ethernet cable will do for this - the wires are already crossed) to your second computer.

A couple caviats - your primary computer must be on when if you want the internet on the second computer - this means no suspend modes, no login screens, etc. Your primary computer must show a valid internet connection.

That beign said it may be economical to just grab yourself a USB/PCI wireless card for your second computer. It'll cut down on inconvenience and won't cost you much more than crossover cable/ethernet cord/coupler combined.

[modena]

thanks for the help, thing is, for some reason, i dont get internet wirelessly the extra like 25 feet my second computer is from the wireless router (about a total of 80 feet away), the router is 802.11g....

[AlpineJay]

It's probably because you have a thick, dense wall that doesn't like passing signal. Trying to get wireless on that could get tricky so I guess internet connection sharing is your only option. PM or post if you need additional help.

[modena]

cool thanks, i saw that there are wireless bosters that look like small telescopes, do those work at al?

[AlpineJay]

They get mixed results. Some work real well and some don't at all. Although I can't comment based on my own experience as I have never used one. There are members on this forum who have used them, though - maybe one of them can answer that one.