Setting Up Internet

I need a little help get both my computers online.
We recently switch to Cable High-speed Internet, and I want to be able to use both computers in my home to it.
I have a Edimax 5-port Fast Ethernet Switch (nowhere on it can I find a model # and I've tried their website for help) . I have run the internet into the switch and run ethernet cables from the switch to both of the computers. When I first did it the other computer was online but this one (the one the internet was originally run to) wasn't able to go online. So I unplugged the cable modem and the switch, restarted the computers, and turned the modem and switch back on. This time this computer was online but not the other one. The modem and switch have the right lights on, but now I can't get the other computer back online. (Even with this one not working. I tried switching the ethernet lines but that didn't get the other one up.
So how can I get both computers online at the same time. I got the switch from my mom's office, but she doesn't know anything about it, because a tech set it up.
Thanks
Tia

 

You're going to need a router. A switch alone will not allow multiple computers to share a single broadband internet connection. You may be able to purchase a single port router and connect the switch to it, effectively creating a multi-port broadband router, but such units are hard to find these days, and may well be more expensive than a typical four-port router. The router is essentially a dedicated computer that "routes" internet traffic appropriately to and from each computer on your LAN, something the switch cannot do.

 

if you want both computers to be able to go online independently (not have to have them both turned on to have internet access) you are going to need a Router, not just a switch. A switch is capable of linking two computers together, but not managing a network connection or the internet.

Depending on your needs, home routers are very cheap these days.

Edit: Doh! seems i've been beat to the punch.

 

Thanks for replying so quickly!
Looks like I'll be looking for a router now.
Tia

 

Look at Netgear or Linksys, two very popular and readily-available brands.

 

D-Link makes some great routers Too!

I have a Broadband High speed Cable connection & I use a D-Link, DI-604 Router I bought it for $20.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16833127013&CMP=OTC-pr1c3watch&ATT=33-127-013