I'm planning to add another PCI network adaptor to one of my computers: one on the router that connects all other computers on the Internet, and one new one which I am going to connect a crossover cable to a PS2 so the PS2 can access games stored and shared from the PC.
Can I do this without trouble?
I can't tell about "without trouble" but it's perfectly doable, in theory.
- PC slots are made to accept anything, from floppy disk controllers to a "complete computer in a daughter board".
- Many servers (and home made look-alikes) have multiple network cards, operating on same or completely different protocols. You'll find professional grade adapters with multiple ports, built-in switching/routing, etc.
- Windows classify your plain basic PC's network card as many: Ethernet, IP, etc. Those virtual adapters are drivers/interfaces to your real single card.
I've seen it (1 PC, 2 LAN) running on some occasions, but it was a long time ago, when still working in the IT field.
"Not without trouble?" Then "perfectly doable?" dueda, you like to contradict yourself!
Just kidding.
Well, the only way to know is to test it.
I'll let you know if I run into errors.
While we're at it, if you can solve this Rosetta Stone for me: can a slim PS2 use wireless connections?
Yes, but you can also connect your PS2 to the router and achieve the same thing. You also don't need a crossover cable unless both devices are very old.
I would need a crossover cable because the router is full of Ethernet connections.
So, rather than a new network card, what you need is an additional switch. But you still don't need a crossover cable. Newer adapters handle that automatically.
All right, thank you.
EDIT: Just so I know, the switch should connect itself to the already-operating router, correct?
EDIT: OK, I'm going to go out and buy a router. I am doing so because of IP addresses. Routers can do DHCP and thus, that is why I'm doing it.
Thanks!
You can have as many network cards as you have PCI(-e) slots
Maybe this is off-topic, but I want to get this off my chest: can a router still assign dynamic IP addresses (DHCP) if it's not connected a modem?
It is off topic, but yes, a DHCP service is independent of any other network operations.