ok, im in the uk and need advice on setting my house up with a broadband connection, along with a home network, so that the other computer in my house can get use the dsl modem. I was looking into BT's broadband offer, but they say when u go to get a standard modem that if u want to use the connection with their service then u would need a specific network modem/network pack, which they sell for £150. The standard modem they offer is usb, i was thinking this is just a way to get people to buy the network pack, so i need advice as to whether this is correct. If i was to network the computers together anyway, would the two computers be able to use the one modem/connection(at the same time), or would i realy need the network pack? The price difference is shocking, and i dont want to buy something then find its not necessary, or its completly the wrong thing. Freeserve offer a connection only pack, where u can set up ur own network, but also have the offer to use a modem they give u. If i set the network up myself, then the host would be xp pro, with the client a win 98se. Thanks for any advice.

Hey, Fistly if ur going to get broadband check out www.adslguide.org, they have some good listings of all the various comapnies. Dont by the starter back or networking pack off bt. you could by the parts for less elseware. It is a usb modem which did annoy me once I saw it. You can get adsl routers and modems in one unit now for less than 100 pounds, i have seen some for 60. If u are in a cable area you may want to consider that too. Jon

I agree with Jon's remarks. Most UK ISPs now provide a "wires only service" which then leaves you to buy your own hardware. Have a look at www.adslguide.org then make your mind up which ISP other than BT you are going to use. I use Pipex and the service is reliable, fast and cheaper than BT. You might also like to to look at the Zoom Z4 Modem/Router. £79.99 from PCWorld. It has both USB and Ethernet connections both of which you can be used at the same time. However if you want to network more than two computer you will need to buy a hub. However, the prices of routers with internal hub/switches may have come down a bit since I last looked. Stuart

Forget Bt ,150 quid for what!! Chris Blands new Bently fund :P,, ring Ntl up and see if they are in your area , they are doing a deal at the mo which gives free installation , and you buy your self a nice linksis or belkin router for 50 £ to add other pc s as required but dont mention that tho :), 3 levels of BB from Ntl 150k, 600k and 1 meg pipes,the 600k is more than fast enough unless you are king kazzaa lol. all of them whizz on Bt's paltry offering if you play games or D/l loads then (a)dsl is sadly lacking in my experience. i binned dsl too many ppl in the same area shot the Band width down no QoS!! (and no i dont work for ntl). if you "have" to have dsl see Stuarts sensible reply above. ;)