Adding a PC to a Mac network

[Minder]

You were all wonderful with helping me set up my network that I thought I would pick your brain again!!

I have an iMac (333 mHZ, tray loading, OS X 10.3.9) and Powerbook (OS X 10.4.2) networked together via Airport Extreme. The iMac is networked via ethernet and the PB is wireless.

I have now aquired a PC running Windows 98. It has no ethernet port in it and no network card that I am able to discern.

Bear with me here, as this is probably confusing. The iMac and AE sit in the same room currently. I want to move the iMac upstairs to the kids' room and use my DSL router (Actiontec) to connect the PC and PB downstairs and the AE upstairs with the iMac. (I can set up a wireless network via the DSL router apparently and I can hook up the PC via USB). But then I lose the ability to network print. (Important with homework going on on three separate computers.)

The only other way I can see to share the DSL through many wall obstructions is to put another DSL modem with the iMac and go that route. Is that even possible? Can I have TWO modems running on the same line?

Does anyone have any better suggestions for me?

Remember that I am NOT a wizard with the networking side yet, so I need specific but consise, step by step instructions.

Thanks in advance for all your help.

Minder

 

[mad jew]

Get a cheap PCI networking card. I didn't even think it was possible to network through USB and the AirPort. Windows 98 is pretty haphazard with USB as is, but going through an AirPort (if it is at all possible) just overcomplicates things.

I have no idea about putting two modems on the one line either. I suppose it depends on your ISP. In other words, it may be possible but is unlikely.

Sorry for the pessimistic post but I really think buying a cheap network card (which is the same as an ethernet port/card BTW) is the easiest/best option.

Is the router wireless? Is it going to connect to the Extreme upstairs wirelessly, which will be hardwired to the iMac and then have the PC hardwired to the router downstairs?

 

[Minder]

Adding a PC to a Mac Network

Get a cheap PCI networking card. I didn't even think it was possible to network through USB and the AirPort. Windows 98 is pretty haphazard with USB as is, but going through an AirPort (if it is at all possible) just overcomplicates things.

I have no idea about putting two modems on the one line either. I suppose it depends on your ISP. In other words, it may be possible but is unlikely.

Sorry for the pessimistic post but I really think buying a cheap network card (which is the same as an ethernet port/card BTW) is the easiest/best option.

Is the router wireless? Is it going to connect to the Extreme upstairs wirelessly, which will be hardwired to the iMac and then have the PC hardwired to the router downstairs?

The router can be set up for a wireless network, yes. So I was planning on doing exactly what you said above. So it looks like a Ethernet port card is the way to go, eh?

Thanks for your help!! I am off to Froogle for a port card for the PC!!


Minder