New Network/Switch, 2 computers, 1 IP

[Jinxing]

I used to have a DSL modem that allowed me to connect 2 computers to it. Both computers connected to the internet without problems. Recently, the modem got fried. I used another modem I had (a Speedstream 5100) and purchased a switch (Encore Electronics 8-Port 10/100Mbps NWay Switch, ENH908-NWY). One computer has Windows XP, the other has Windows XP x64.

I connected the switch to both computers and the DSL modem, and when I powered everything up the internet didn't work on either computer. If I unplug either computer from the switch, the other computer will have no connection problems.

While doing this with both computers connected to the switch, I recieved an error that said I had a IP Address conflict.

Currently both computers are set to Obtain a IP address automatically and to Obtain a DSN server address automatically.

I contacted my ISP and they said since the internet service was working, they were doing their part and do not provide tech support for this sort of problem.

How do I get both computers connections working? Thanks!

[YeOldeStonecat]

The modem you had before may have been running as a router, so sharing your single IP address to many computers. The 5100 may be set as a pure modem/bridge...so it's still only getting 1x IP at at time from your ISP.

[ghettoside]

I just had a similar experience, having switched to comcast from dsl. I'd lost my router during one of my many moves a couple years ago, and had been able to connect my boxes thru my EZXS55W Linksys 4 port workgroup without any problems.
Comcast issues aside, as Stonecat stated, you old modem was probably running as a router.
I can offer one solution. Walmart has the Linksys "Network Anywhere" (http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=3910287) NR041 4 port router for $40. Inexpensive for a NAT router, and I'm quite pleased with it. Note the 200 Mbps connection speed. I have a blazing connection on 3 boxes, the router delivers that speed to all computers on your network, it doesn't split the 200 Mbps up between the boxes connected to it.
I was also pleased that I didn't even have to clone the MAC address of the box I used to activate the comcast account, all I had to do was power down the modem, hook up the connections, power up router, power on modem, power up the boxes. I can't guarantee that your install will go that smooth, but if you need to clone your ip to the router, all you gotta do is post here for the solution.
If you can afford $40 for that router it's a quick and easy solution. I was going to buy a Linkysys (http://www.cdw.com/shop/products/default.aspx?EDC=196823) BEFSR41 for $60 from CDW or a BEFVP41 (http://www.cdw.com/shop/products/default.aspx?EDC=914450) clearance item for $54, regularly $117 (http://www.cdw.com/shop/products/specs.aspx?EDC=355881)

The $40 was well spent. You're better off using a router anyway on high speed, more secure. I hope this is helpful.

[Jinxing]

Hmmm... Ok, I was hoping I'd be able to get it done without purchasing anything else, but I guess that's not possible.

Do you think this would do the job?

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16833117301

[ghettoside]

Hmmm... Ok, I was hoping I'd be able to get it done without purchasing anything else, but I guess that's not possible.

Do you think this would do the job?

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16833117301


hmmm... I'm not familiar with that brand. I recommend you see if someone else comes thru here that's got some feedback on it before you buy it. Make sure you're not buying a lemon. It does have the features, just seems like an awful cheap price, even for newegg.

I just looked at configuration options for that modem, it looks to me like you're going to need a router. Try to sell the switch too...recoup some of your funds. you might try some ghetto style action too, try to return it, just say it doesn't work, most places won't check, they'll just throw it on the pile of returns and give you your money back (unless you ordered it online, then you're probably stuck unless you sell it)

some links I looked at: link (http://www.dslreports.com/faq/9724) link (http://www.alltel.net/downloads/links/SpeedStream211.pdf)

It's always a good idea to check devices for compatability with your isp before buying anything, unfortunately you've learned that the hard way.

edited: major edits lol...