I have two computers sharing a cable modem through a Linksys DSL hard-wired router. When both computers are online at the same time, one of them cannot access the log-in screens to various websites. Either the log-in screen vanishes or refuses to accept the password/user ID as valid. If you take the other computer offline, you can log- in with no problem. When I bought the router, they told me it was essentially plug-and-play, but after the log-in problem cropped up, I went through a formal set- up procedure. It didn't help. Both computers can get online and surf to any website, but the computer upstairs cannot access or respond to log-in screens if the downstairs comptuer is online. Any suggestions?

Make sure both computers have different IP addresses. Open a command "DOS" window and type ipconfig , then hit enter should show you the addresses. Also both computers should be set to obtain IP addresses and DNS addresses automatically (see Internet options in Contol Panel). Your router needs to be configured to act as a DHCP server also to give the PCs the addresses. I hope you meant this was a DSL/Cable router hooked up to a cable modem. For more help, I suggest you read the manual(s) for the router or visit Linksys' site.

I assumed that when I set up the two computers, each obtained a separate IP address. (According to the router manual, the box for "obtain IP address automatically" should have been checked. (And it was.) As you suggested, there may be something not configured properly with the router. A message on the Linksys tech support forum said to make sure the modem is in "bridge mode," whatever that is. One solution proven to work is to use the intercom and holler downstairs "Hey! Log off the internet for a second!"

Make sure all cables are of the straight thru design, and not crossover