You should first make sure you understand the advantages and disadvantages of each type of hardware.
Pros and Cons of a TA•If your TA connects to your computer via the serial port the speed of your connection will be limited to the speed of the serial port. Most serial ports run at a max speed of 115kbps. Your ISDN line can potentially run at a max speed of 128kbps. You may be wasting a small amount of speed because the ISDN line and TA can run faster than the serial port.
•You will get better performance by using a USB connection to your TA.
•A TA is great for connecting one computer to the ISDN line and internet. If you want to share your internet connection with more than one computer you will need to use Windows Internet Connection Sharing.
•All configuration is typically done in Windows dial-up=networking.
Pros and Cons of a Router•A router is operating system independent. Any computer on your network can connect to the router via the Ethernet connection regardless of its OS.
•You can easily share the internet connection between multiple computers in your home without using Windows Internet Connection Sharing and requiring the gateway computer to remain turned on.
•You will usually realize the fastest speed when using a router because you are not limited by a serial port connection to the computer.
•The router configuration is done in the router itself, either via special software, Telnet, or a browser interface to the router configuration screens.
OK, so which one should I use?
Most folks in the forum will recommend a router. They are easy to setup and it is very easy to share the internet connection with several computers in your home. But a TA will work just fine too, so if you are more comfortable with a "modem like" device connected directly to your computer or have found a great deal on a TA then its fine to use a TA. Just make sure you know the difference between the two types of hardware before making your decision.
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by brawney 
last modified: 2002-09-10 18:50:34 |
