What changes do I have to make to my dad's iMac to switch from dial-up to broadband? According to The Missing Manual by David Pogue, all I have to do is connect the wire from the cable modem to the ethernet port, turn on the firewall, and I'm set to go- just click on Safari. I've also read that I should never load software from the cable company but don't I somehow have to get the driver for the cable modem? So- can someone give me advice on the step-by-step method of getting online with broadband? This is for an iMac using 10.4.3. Thanks, Rick

What you read is correct...
DO NOT INSTALL ANY SOFTWARE FROM THE SERVICE PROVIDER!

It really is that simple. Plug and play. David Pogue Rocks!!!

Actually, it depends on whether he's getting cable or DSL. While cable is always on, DSL has to connect. Whichever he's getting, forget the software firewall and buy a router to go between the modem and the computer. It's more secure, and in the case of DSL, it removes the need for connection software.

The "don't install their software" rule may not be as cut and dry as it used to be. It really depends on the broadband provider and especially with DSL you may HAVE TO install their software in order to get your DSL modem and account setup. Granted it screws up your browser and installs a bunch of unnecessary stuff too, but you may simply have no choice when you're trying to get your account setup with the newer equipment and connections available today.

On the last DSL connection I had to troubleshoot the DSL modem had an IP address for set up. Instead of using the software I used the IP in my favorite browser to get into the modem's setup.

Does the router itself need any set up or software install that I should be aware of or is it simply a case of plugging it in?

Rick...

The router will need no software, but it will need to be set-up. Don't worry, it's easy to do and most (if not all) of them have a web interface so you can configure it with a web browser.

DSL needs additional software??? Hmmm... I knew there was reason I didn't pick DSL!!

Check to see if there is a firmware update. I know of a couple units that had to be rebooted quite often (Linksys and Belkin). After updating the firmware, no more problems. The Linksys router firmware update was a pain because it had to be done on a Windose computer at the time.

quote:

Originally posted by Rick:
Does the router itself need any set up or software install that I should be aware of or is it simply a case of plugging it in?

Comcast DSL takes a dim view of routers on their network. They won't help you configure the router. I've had good luck with WOW! Most cable/DSL providers are unfamiliar with Mac setup, but the installers seem to view it as a challenge when they come to your home.

If your dad has a laptop, or wants to buy a laptop, he may want to purchase a wireless router. In addition to a firewall, it adds a certain amount of personal freedom and comfort to surfing throughout his house. No tethers!

[A wireless router will more than likely need to be configured as a secure connection - otherwise the neighbors might cause difficulties on his FREE Wi-Fi connection.]

quote:

Originally posted by Chuck M:
Comcast DSL takes a dim view of routers on their network. They won't help you configure the router. I've had good luck with WOW! Most cable/DSL providers are unfamiliar with Mac setup, but the installers seem to view it as a challenge when they come to your home.

You mean Comcast Cable, not DSL, right!
They really don't much care any more that you have a router, though last time I had to call them the CSR guy even asked me if I was using a router/firewall, and was glad that I was (same guy, when I told him I was on a Mac, said, "gee, now I like you even more!"). Since Comcast does sell a packaged (PC friendly) networking system, they don't frown on it, but of course prefer you'd pay them to provide it and support it.
The only Comcast installer here actually had a Mac reference section in his manual, but was relieved, I think, that i had already had my Networking prefs set up, so it was truly plug and play.