A collection of home network diagrams

Sharing a broadband Internet connection using a cable/dsl router and a hub

Using a cable/dsl router to share your Internet connection simplifies security.  As shown below, the LAN is separated from the WAN (internet) by the router which acts as a firewall.  The example below shows a router that does not have an ethernet hub/switch built in.  If you purchase a router without enough ports for all your computers, an extra hub or switch can be connected easily.  Just run a standard ethernet cable from your hub/switch UPLINK port to your routers LAN port.