Networking Macintosh and IBM Compatibles

[James MacFarlane]

I'm going to be trying to network a brand new Dell and a 5 year-old Macintosh Performa. The Mac currently has a cable modem attached, and I want to share this connection with the new Dell, as well as be able to share files between the computers, etc.

I will be using a DHCP Router, possibly connected to a Hub or Switch. The Router will also act as a Firewall. Should I have the cable connection run first to the newer, faster machine, or does this not matter?

Also, if I was dealing with two IBM Compatibles, I'd feel more confident, but I've never had to network Macs and IBMs together before. What will I need to do differently when networking these computers? Is it going to work, and, if so, what pitfalls might I expect? Any good resources out there for me on how to do this?

Thanks, in advance, for any help that anyone can provide.

[a Bill]

Internet connection-router-switch-any computer

Crude but to the point.

Oh yeah, use TCP/IP and they'll work fine together.

[This message has been edited by a Bill (edited 09-02-2000).]

[James MacFarlane]

Nice! I like it when the answer is that easy http://sysopt.earthweb.com/forum/smile.gif "Just do what you'd do normally and it will work."

Thanks for the reply!

[thekingofpain]

My home LAN (which includes Macs) is supported by a cheap Linksys router, works perfectly...