... NTL replies to the [same] question posed ten days ago - and, actually, with a remarkably helpful reply.
Is there a URL for this NTL response?
I am not sure of the ethics of posting a private message, but I have edited out some details and I think this is an example of excellent customer service by NTL. ISPs frequently send out an inappropriate stock replies to such queries: here we have a detailed and useful response, though it did take eight days:
========== Start of message to and from NTL ================= From: "Cablemodem support" cablemodem_support@ntlworld.com References: NTLI-NEWTON1Vjp3b6u00000613@ntl-stage.ntl.com Date: Tue, 4 Oct 2005 15:38:26 +0100
Hi
Thank you for your email.
The ntl modem will work with networked PC's. We only send out one IP address, so whatever PC you connect to will pick the connection up. Swapping to another pc will not work, unless you first reboot the modem (it will then give the new IP address to what ever its connected too).
If all the PC's in the house are using an Ethernet card they need to be set to automatically detect the IP and DNS addresses (this can be found in the properties of the Ethernet connection).
If you intend using all the PC's at the same time then a router is the answer. My best advice is to go to your local PC shop and explain the set up. They should be able to advise you on what system best meets your needs.
A home network allows multiple computers or devices to browse the Internet or check email at the same time using a single broadband connection. In the past this would have involved using large lengths of cables, but today's technologies allow computers to be networked without cables by way of a wireless 'router'.
http://www.ntlworld.com/toolsservices/wireless/
Please note that Actiontec provides these services, on behalf of ntl. These home networking products are NOT supported by ntl Technical Support. If you have a problem with this service, please contact the vendor Actiontec directly. Contact details and further information is available by clicking on the link above.
Basic troubleshooting for router connections should be directed towards the manufacturers as previously stated, however we will go through some common settings and problems that you should be aware of.
ntl has Dynamic IP addresses (assigned by DHCP). You do not have to specify an IP as directed by some manufacturers.
The ntl DNS servers do not have to be specified within the router as directed by some manufacturers.
You do not require a Domain name, Username or Password to gain access to the ntl broadband service. Usernames and Passwords are only used for the ntlworld email service.
When setting up or troubleshooting your router connection it is vital that you always follow the next few steps.
Turn off all the equipment, cable modem, router and computer(s)
Check cables
Turn on your broadband device. Wait for at least 2 minutes or until the lights indicate connection
Turn on your router
Turn on your computer(s)
The following may also be of use regarding networking in general, but are not specifically related to ntl connections:
http://www.homepcnetwork.com http://www.howstuffworks.com/home-network.htm http://www.practicallynetworked.com http://compnetworking.about.com/cs/beginnersguides/
I hope the above answers your query, however, should you need further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact us again.
Regards
Leighton ntl Technical Support Bureau
----- Original Message -----
Hello,
We are a student household of 5 people who need to set up 5 computers with internet access, at the same time, in 5 different rooms. We have a 1MB cable modem from NTL, installed very recently on 13th September, which works with one laptop only.
We find that we cannot connect any other laptops or desktops to it successfully (error message "network adaptor error" when trying to install using the installation CD provided on another laptop). We believe that this is because the modem registered the first MAC address and will now not accept any other. In any case, we need all 5 online at once.
Is it possible to upgrade our cable modem connection to a wireless router, through NTL, with up to 5 MAC and IP addresses enabled, so that we can then all use the internet at the same time? We are happy to pay more for this service.
The 5 computers are not all Windows (e.g. one is FreeBSD), but we can configure them if you can tell us the appropriate DHCP or IP, DNS and router settings.
================== end of message to & from NTL ============