I bought a Linksys Switch but only one of the computers can go online?

I'm using Earthlink cable service in New York City.

I have two computers at home so I bought a linksys switch to allow two computers to go online at the same time.

However, only one of the computers can go online.

The other either is unable to determin ip or shows connected but unable to surf internet or aol.

I wonder if I need to setup anything.

Thank you for your reponses.

I bought a Linksys Switch but only one of the computers can go online?spyware removal

In order for a switch to allow two or more computer to connect through one internet connection you need to...

1) Connect it thru a DHCP enabled Router, or assign each computer a static LAN IP.

2) Use the ICW (Internet Connection Wizard) in Xp to configure computer 1 straight to the internet, and computer 2 configured to access the internet thru computer 1.

I use option one, simple because it is the simplest and most reliable. You can connect several platforms thru a router, XP, 9x, DOS, MAC, Linux, Beos,... with very little problems.

The one in the example below even has a print server.

I bought a Linksys Switch but only one of the computers can go online?virus protection software

Unfortunately, hubs and switched will not allow you simultaneous internet access unless you've configured your computers for ICS (Internet Connection Sharing). This is because the hubs and switches simply act as a pass-through, and you need a router which will also act as your DHCP server to allow multiple internet access without having to configure the computers - thoeretically a plug and play set up.