network up and running

Thanks to Ty's recommendation, I now have our local network up and running. Cousin Ty suggested that I get a Netgear wireless-G router. I plugged it into our cable modem, and while the documentation didn't really speak well to Mac users (it would have helped had the html manual actually worked), the quick start sheet included in the box basically made it a case of setting up your computers to obtain their addresses on the network automatically and then turning everything off and then starting the modem first, then a minute later restarting the router (which is now hooked with a crossover cable to the modem and a "regular" cable to a computer), and then a minute or so later turning on the computer. The thing went well, and Netgear's own web-browser based setup page was easy to follow, even without a proper manual.

The router works well with this PC notebook I am using right now, too.

Ty's consulting business and online store can be found at MacAtoZ.com (shameless commercial plug).