SteveD, maybe you know the answer .... I just bought a pc for myself, now my antivirus software says I have to buy more for their pc. I thought if mine had antivirus software their's was also protected? as we 're on the same broadband connection. I feel inadequate here....
Hmmm. Home Networking. Well here goes...
Two types:
1. Internet connection sharing where the connection is via your pc and all others link via your PC. If you have a firewall and virus protection the others are OK too. However, as your PC is the "server", if its off, then no-one gets to use the internet.
2. NATS (Network Address Translation Service). You need a router connected to your network which all PCs use. Each PC has its own private IP address and the router sorts out the fact that to the outside world, you are just one device. Most routers come with a built-in firewall, but that doesn't always work in my experience. You will need protection on each PC that is connected. For example, I have 4 Norton Internet Security licenses (one for each PC) - it is checked every time you go for a live update.
Hope this helps
Steve
PS I used this site originally, it was very helpfull:
www.howstuffworks.com/home-network2.htm