i want to setup a small home network with only three computers connected to a router and still have the internet on all 3 computers

Curlyben

In that case the best thing to do would be to get your self an internet gateway type router.

This ADSL one is excellent:

http://uk.insight.com/apps/productpr..._id=LNKNA03PA9

Has everything you'll need to connect to the net on numerous machines.

# ADSL modem for connection
# Excellent firewall
# 4 port router of computers
# wireless as well
# loads of extra security stuff.

There are various types around, but these are the features that you are looking for on any brand of gateway.

Setup is simple as well, comes with excellent instructions.

Hope this helps

fredg

Hi,
Here is a link:

http://www.pcnineoneone.com/howto/hmnetwk1.html

Scroll down to Option #3, for networking 3 computers, using a router/hub, and internet connections. There are links for step-by-step installations.

Curlyben

An interesting site there Fred, but the solution I provided means that only ONE box is needed to do the work of the THREE that the diagram mentions.

A ONE box solution makes things so much easier to install and troubleshoot, far less to go wrong.

ScottGem

Just to clarify, That's exactly what a broadband router is for. Its main purpose is to allow sharing a single broadband connection with multiple PCs. That's why these devices have become wildly popular.

Setting them up is fairly easy depending on the version of Windows you have. I prefer Linksys equipment. They have excellent 24/7 toll free tech support to help you set up your systems if you encounter any problems.

Curlyben

Oh look about the post UNDER yours gives more of an explaination, plus the asker had already thought about using a router.