How can i connect 2 computers to one Internet connexion plus more?

Question

Hello!
Recently i have connected 2 computers at home and set up a small network using a switch the 2 pcs and my DSL.Sharing files is okay and i can do whatever i want (note that both Computers use Vista) now here is the problem.
1 - I can not connect the tw computers at the same time to my Internet although they are both connected to a switch wich should be fine.
2 - When i try playing games on local network while one of the comps is connected to Internet i cant find the games or sessions created by either one of the computers (that because since i don't have a router my Internet provider generate an automatic Ip each time i connect to Internet so when i try to play Gears of war of example on the pc that is plugged on the net i see the Internet generated Ip and on the other Pc i get the normal standard IP) So basically i have to turn of my Internet to be able to play in me local network witch is a bit rubbish! 

So What seems to be the problem in your opinion?
Again I use 2 Computers, ethernet (not WiFi) cables a switch plus my modem all connected to the switch.
Thank you for reading this and if you have any suggestion please enlighten me.
Oh and Hi by the way to all my old friends from here sorry i have been long absent duo to my tight schedule wish you all the best.

ktt · Accepted Answer

VISTA has a horrible networking issue where if you dont install hard IP addresses the first box to boot grabs the IP address through your switch OR ROUTER and disables all others from internet access but it still allows local networking. 
Install a static IP on all computers and that will solve the issue.
good luck

Ross · Answer

I have no idea but a router might make things more complicated than they need to be..
For instance you might ALREADY have a router like I do but maybe the thing is downstairs next to the phone line and you have 4 PCS in your loft like I do.

The cable goes upstairs and there it splits to the various computers via the switch.
A switch is designed to do just this kind of work. Easy.

I can say that I used a few switches and on some you just plug your pcs into them, plug your internet cable on the other site and off they go.

Some others they come with manuals and they have settings and diagrams and what have you... 

The last one I had eventually was hit by a BIG HAMMER and that was the end of the switch.

The one I am using now is made by SOHO, it is only a 5 channel it costs me $10 off ebay and it has been ON for the past 3 years without a glitch.
No messing with it you just plug cables and off it goes.

So maybe your switch needs the big hammer treatment. Or you can run over it with your car.

Senlis · Answer

A switch is not designed to share internet.  You need a router.  If you get a router, just hook the networking cable from the modem into it and then connect each device you want internet/network access to the router.  If you get a wireless router, you can connect your devices wirelessly.  I recommend the brands Netgear or ASUS.

Benjamin J Athawes · Answer

You will need a router, as a switch will not dynamically assign your computers an IP address.

Note that even with a router your ISP will most likely dynamically assign you an IP unless you pay for a static one.

? · Answer

Use a router instead of a switch

Anonymous · Answer

get a router connects to modem then connect pcs to router.

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How can i connect 2 computers to one Internet connexion plus more?

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