Cable modem to buy with router?

[PacMan]

Hi,
Ok, I have had it with 56k and this so called crap v92 with modem on hold. I have decided to go back to cable modem but this time, I’m buying the modem. My cable provider is Comcast. I have been looking at some cable modems and a router for my 4 computers at the home network.

Right now, I have all 4 computers (all WIN XP) on a 4port NetGear Hub and they all connect to the internet through my computer through dialup. I once had cable modem with 3 other computers on the network and the ISP started charging me additional $5 per extra IP.
I am now looking to buy a cable modem and a router to share the internet without the extra charge.

I have never installed a router on a network and need some advise from you guys.
Ok, my budget is low, so I was looking at this cable modem (yeah, I’ll check with Comcast if this is compatible) and I found this: 3Com Cable Modem.

This modem says I can share up to 15 computers on a LAN. So does this have some kind of a built-in router? And if I do go this route, will I no longer need my HUB and the cable modem acts like a hub/modem/router (NO WAY!!)? Here is how I see the path: ISP line (coaxial cable)>>>cable modem>>>CAT5 from modem to HUB and then the HUB to the computers? Or do I just hook up all my 4 computers onto this cable modem and still have the network features of a HUB?

router
If I do need a router, I was looking at this router: Compaq.
In case I do need a router. Is this correct?:: Internet connection>>Cable Modem>>>Router>>>HUB?? The router to hub part is the part I don’t understand if that is the right path.


What are your thoughts on these two products? I know they are not the best, but as long as I can free up the phone line.. I’m ok with them .
Thank you for your time and patience.

[Mustang]

I would recommend this Router and this Modem They are both made by the same company, are stackable, and have a decent cost associated with them.

I have used the linksys products for years with no problems.

They are compatible with Comcast's service

[bbtech6650]

Originally posted by PacMan
Ok, my budget is low, so I was looking at this cable modem (yeah, I’ll check with Comcast if this is compatible) and I found this: 3Com Cable Modem

Hmm seems to be only DOCSIS 1.0 compliant and thus prolly will not work on comcast's network... (just a casual observation)

maybe NooNoo can see if the firmware is upgradeable?

She's really good at hunting and successfully finding that kinda stuff!

I would recommend using an old pc that you might be able to obtain for very cheap if you do not have one around, and put 2 NICs in it and load www.coyotelinux.com's floppy based linux.

I have noticed that it has better throughput than the store bought routers...could the amount of ram or the processor speed increase have anthing to do with it?

[Rellik]

Originally posted by PacMan

This modem says I can share up to 15 computers on a LAN. So does this have some kind of a built-in router?

I suspect that this is a no, that just means the Cable Co. can provide up to 15 additional IPs.