Hi Mick,

I haven't tested this (I would have tested for you in my work lab, but we
had an emergency move last week and it's completely torn down), so I'm not
sure if it applies to XP.  However, Windows 2000 will allow you to unplug
and plug a network connection without having to reboot.  So, you should be
able to just unplug the system when you don't want it on the network, and
plug it back in when you do.  If you truly want a switch to do it, I would
head on down to my local electronics store and find an on/off switch that
has eight wire inputs and outputs, then splice it in to my patch cable.
However, I wouldn't recommend that unless you have experience with such
wiring.

Kyle Elmblade
Distinct Computer Solutions
Sales - Upgrades - Training - Consulting
[log in to unmask]
"A closed mouth gathers no foot"

From: "Mick Fitzpatrick" <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Thursday, August 08, 2002 2:00 PM
Subject: [PCBUILD] Network connection on/off switch


> Hello
>
> I have a home network via Windows XP. All the pc's connect to the internet
> via ADSL ... everything works fine.
>
> Security on the network is not a major issue except for my PC.
>
> What I would like to be able to do is 'physically' remove and add my PC
> from/on the network.
>
> Therefore my question is:
>
> Is it possible to add an on/off switch (so that it's located in a
convenient
> place) with the network cable running through it?
>
> I appreciate the method sounds crude ... but it will give me peace of mind
> 'if it's feasible'?
>
> TIA ... Mick

              The NOSPIN Group is now offering Free PC Tech
                     support at our newest website:
                          http://freepctech.com