In my area, the cable provider will provide you with a free cable modem and a cable to connect to your existing pc.  If your computer is 'network ready', there will be a plug-in port on the pc (looks like an oversized phone connection).  If not, you will have to add a network adapter card ($5-$15).  If you're looking to hook up several computers, you will need to purchase a router.  There are wired routers and wireless router.  The wireless routers usually allow up to 4 wired connections plus wireless connectivity.  Routers start at around $30 and up, sometimes available for less with rebates.  Wired routers will require cables (cat 5 or cat 5e) to connect from each pc to the router.  Wireless routers will require wireless cards to be installed on all remote pcs, the main pc is usually connected via a cable.  There is a lot of info on the web and in the pcbuild archives discussing pros and cons of the two types of routers (speed, security, wiring difficulties, etc.).
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----- Original Message -----
From: [log in to unmask]
Date: Sunday, July 30, 2006 2:01 am
Subject: [PCBUILD] Cable Modems
To: [log in to unmask]

> At present I have a dial up modem. I want to switch over to 
> cable. What equipment is necessary. I would eventually want to 
> have to computers on the net at the same time.
> 
> Thanks in advance

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