i have three pcs which i want to network and share internet connection from a cable modem. how do i setup the network and configure the ip of each pc if i want to use a public ip for each pc (is it possible?) instead of private ip.

Is there a special reason you want to use a Public IP? Does the cable modem come with a static IP addr? Do you have an registered domain name with a static IP address already? If not you will most likely want to get the IP adress dynamically asigned by your provider and use private IP's for the networked PC's. Tell me more and I'll try to help.

exactly, i am going to get static ip instead of dynamic with my isp to host a web server and dns, with win2k. and wondering if could assign public ip for those servers so could be accessed from outside. instead of using nat plus private ip for those pc. btw, does my current setup (1 cable modem) allow me to setup such thing or do i need another cable line? i am quite a beginner when come to network, please hlp. thanks for any helps.

With an IP address you will need to choose a subnet mask (either use the class default mask or another depending upon your required number of subnets). Class default example 209.125.105.0/24 also viwed as 209.125.105.0 255.255.255.0 (My apologoies to whoever has this actual address) Or borrow bits for fewer potential subnet/host combos. Subnetting can be overwhelming at times. Just remember, whichever subnet mask you select you the same for all PC's. I'll paste in the instructions for using your cable modem: This was written by a different BB member but should help. ***Plug the cable modem into the WAN port on the router, plug your computers into the LAN ports on the router. Configure the router according to its manual (pretty simple to do). You will not need another computer name from your ISP, and you will not need to run any additional software.*** I'll check back later to see how your are doing.

Also set router's IP as gateway address for each workstation on the LAN.

Thanks guys, appreciate your great info :) will try soon.

Check out www.dslwebserver.com It should answer a lot of questions regarding home webhosting over dsl/cable and dynamic ip address issues.