My $.02. (after reading the other responses) First, I prefer the following setup: --->Internet--->Dedicated Firewall--->Hub or switch--->home network For my own personal setup, I use a cable modem connected to a Linksys BEFW11S4 (Wireless Cable Modem/DSL router). The non-wrireless version is the BEFSR41. Both have a 4 port 10/100 switch. The non-wireless version is available under $100 US. The advantage of using a cheap NAT box is that it tends to isolate your internal network. However, switches and hubs are very inexpensive. If you have a permanent network connection, then IMHO, a deicated firewall (low cost NAT box, Linux or SOHO) is a must. Also, IMHO, I prefer the internal systems to also be running a firewall as an additional protection. Whatever firewall you chose, you can use either dynamic or static IP addresses for the network members. In the case where you may simply share 2 machines with one on dialup, the use of a crossover cable will work fine. -- Jerry Feldman Portfolio Partner Engineering 508-467-4315 http://www.testdrive.compaq.com/linux/ Compaq Computer Corp. 200 Forest Street MRO1-3/F1 Marlboro, Ma. 01752