Using a subnet

If you create an Ethernet or phone-line-based network and also use a laptop or other mobile device, you may want to consider setting up a subnet—essentially a second network—with a wireless or IEEE 1394 connection for the mobile device. This allows you freedom of movement while using all your shared resources.

You can set up Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) on two different types of home networks at once. The computer through which you want to use ICS, which we'll call the ICS server (to distinguish it from ICS clients), will need two network adapters if you are using an external DSL or cable modem. Otherwise, you need one network adapter to connect to the rest of your home network. The ICS clients require only one network adapter.

Before you can share your Internet connection to a subnet, first finish setting up your primary home network, by using the Home Networking Wizard on the ICS server. Then follow these steps:

1. Click Start, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
2. Click Internet Options.
3. Click the Connections tab.
4. Under Local Area Network (LAN) settings, click Sharing.
   
   Note   If you do not see Sharing, you do not have Internet Connection Sharing installed on your primary home network (the one you set up without your laptop). To do this, follow the instructions under the Home Networking wizard.
5. From the list, select the network adapter that connects you to the secondary network.
6. Click OK, and then restart your computer.