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Advice for a network of 3 computers (2 of for my kids)???
Just to cut a long story short, I have dabbled with computers since the days of the ZX81, so have some experience of computers with the exception of one main factor.
Networking I had some time out in my career away from computers for a few years and it was during this time that Networking really took off for home users and subsequently I completely missed the transition into home networking. This has left me always unsure about what can and can't be done and how it is achieved.
I hope that some of you experts will be able to offer some advice about the following question:
My 2x children are now at an age where by they not only use computers at school but use them at home.
We have 2x computers at the moment, this is my main computer, the kids have an XP 32bit powered desktop. Nothing special but enough for them to do what they want to.
However, we are looking into the not to distant future and can see them having a desktop each in their bedrooms. The main purpose will be to facilitate helping them with their homework.
This leaves me with a number of questions.
1, I currently have a 4 port router. This connects the 2 computers currently (hardwired) to the internet.
Ideally I would like to be able to have admin control over their desktop pc's, mainly to prevent them (as best as I can) from ruining the OS, but also to ensure control how they connect to the internet. Is this possible?
2, Would their own 2x computers be accessable to the internet via the router if they were connected directly?
3, What would be the best way to prevent to set up this system especially with regard to protecting all 3 computers (mine especially) from virus' and hackers?
I have all the usual firewalls and anti virus installed on all computers.
I would appreciate any advice on this.
Many thanks in advance.