Converting to cable, but need advice

[Trelane]

I am starting service shortly using a cable ISP. I have just a few questions regarding:
1. Equipment choice and compatibility
2. Security

Currently I am running 3 machines... two desktops, both w/Win98SE, and one laptop w/Win98. I plan to LAN the three computers. The cable modem I am considering is the Toshiba PCX1100U USB Cable Modem. The router used to connect all three computers to will be the Linksys BEFW11S4 Etherfast Wireless Router, each desktop to be equipped with a Linksys LNE 100TX Etherfast 10/100 NIC, and finally the Linksys WPCII Wireless Network PC Card for the laptop.

Since I am fairly new to cable modems and networking, what does it mean to have a cable modem that is USB but also states 10/100 Ethernet? With the Toshiba PCX1100, do I have the choice of using the NIC to gain a faster speed and avoid the choke of USB?

Regarding security - the Toshiba modem supposedly has a firewall, and so does the Linksys wireless router. Which one would be best to secure the network? The modem? The Router? Both? ZoneAlarm? Also, does a wireless system have realistic security concerns?

Thanks

[daveleau]

When it comes to cable modems I would usually rather rent it from the company. The reason is that if anything happens to it, THEY foot the bill. Not sure what yours has to offer but... I am not sure if the cable modem will stretch the bandwith limit of your USB or not. I do not profess to be a networking guru, but my DL speeds were just as fast with a 10baseT NIC as they were with a 10/100. With that said, the 12Mb/s bandwith is really not going to be an issue, I do not think. Please correct me if i am wrong. What it WOULD do is limit your other USB devices. I would not recommend running anything like a web cam or scanner ont he same USB root hub, because the cable modem will be taking up most of your USB bandwith. So, if you plan to go this route (pun intended), be sure to get a PCI to USB card that will double your USB bandwith.

good luck
Dave

[This message has been edited by daveleau (edited 08-05-2001).]

[radio1_mike]

I'd suggest using NIC to preserve your bandwidth for USB and the internet. I'd also suggest renting your modem. If you do buy- be sure to get an extended service warranty from your retailer.

I bought my modem, but did not get an extended service plan. My modem crapped out after a year and a half-- I switched to renting.

Today's modems are DOCSIS compatible. You can run a separate hardware or software firewall for extra protection. But your cable modem and provider (through DOCSIS) provide a great deal of security.

If you like to test your security:
try:
http://www.grc.com (Shields Up) http://www.dslreports.com (Tools)

GRC will have a link to that great free firewall: Zone Alarm.