I have several Win9x/2k workstations and several older PCs dos/win3x networked via cat5 cables and a couple of hubs. (I also am going to add a couple of MACS...most likely networked w/DAVE).
I want to be able to use one modem for all computers on the network.
Question...what external modem can anyone here recommend for both new and old multi-OSs.
Also, I will be getting DSL soon, but I may need to wait because I am moving. So...is there a DSL router/switch/modem(?) that can act as a regular modem? I really would like to avoid buying a modem that will be useless in 4 or five months.

I was happy as %#$&! to just get these puters talking to each other...its all very new to me. So, if any network experts can give a bit of advice, I would be grateful.

Thanks

I'm not much of an expert, but I can give you some general advice.

If you are planning on moving, I would do some research and see what type of DSL router or modem your ISP of choice offers. Most ISPs are bascically giving them away these days if you keep the service for a while. Also, after you know what they offer, you may be able to shop you local area or eBay and see what is out there in the way of price and compatibility. Keep in mind, though, you can pay $400 for a new DSL modem that some ISPs are including for free. Before you move though, you can just use a regular analog dial-up modem and still share the connection through the LAN. It's not great, but it might do until you relocate.

As far as sharing the internet conection, you can use a proxy program like ICS (Microsoft), WinProxy (Ositis), or Proxy (free from AnalogX), all depending on what type of control you need over the system.

In regards to the multi-OS situation, I would think that as long as the TCP/IP protocol works properly on all of the NICs (which it seems to be already) you shouldn't have a problem sharing an internet connection. I don't know anything about Macs, though, so I'm afraid I can't really say this for sure.