In order to share an Internet connection, you must first establish a network (LAN) and get your computers 'talking' to each other. The first decision you will be required to make is what kind of network will work for your situation. There are several types to choose from, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. You'll need to make this decision before you purchase anything.

1. The Wired or 10/100 Ethernet Network also known as "Fast Ethernet" to distinguish it from the older 10BaseT Ethernet (which will also work fine.) This network requires cable to connect all elements of the network. Advantage: Secure, reliable and has the fastest file transfer and is relatively inexpensive. Disadvantage: wires. If the computers are some distance apart you'll either have wires strung through the house or you have to figure out how to fish wires through the walls, attic, basement or crawl space.

2. The Wireless Network also known as Wi-Fi or 802.11b. This relies on radio signals broadcast from an Access Point to reach the networked computers. Advantage: No or few wires. Disadvantage: Slower file transfer rate, works best with a clear line of sight between the Access Point and the computers receiving the signal. Distance and objects blocking the signal will reduce the speed of the network. Recently new WiFi5, (802.11a) equipment has come out that allows substantially faster file transfer speeds. Be careful what you purchase as 802.11a does not talk to 802.11b.

3. Phone Line Network also known as HomePNA. Advantage: makes use of existing phone wires and jacks to carry the network communications. Disadvantage: You have to have phone jacks located where your computers are located or you have to add them and wire them. Slower than the 10/100 Ethernet but about the same speed as the current Wireless networks speeds.

4. Power Line Networking. This relies on existing electrical wiring in the home to carry the network data. Advantage: No new wires - while not every room in the home will have a phone jack, all will have electrical outlets. Also, by necessity, computers will be located near electrical outlets. It doesn't require a card to be installed in the computer. Disadvantage: Slower than Fast Ethernet for file transfer. There are competing standards. It can be very slow using the older technology. It uses large wall devices to access an electrical outlet.
   Recent advances may have ironed out some of the disadvantages that this type of network had so this may merit a second look.