[TribeLeader]

This is probably a basic question but I wanted to ask to be certain (I did do a brief search). Comcast gives the option of 1) "Lease (or buy) a modem to connect one computer" or 2) "Lease (or buy) a Comcast Certified Home Networking Device" to hookup 2-5 computers (for an extra $100 installation) .

I want to hook up their cable modem to my Airport Extreme Base Station and 2 PowerBooks to share the connection wirelessly.

Which option do I need to select, 1 computer or 2+?

FWIW, I'm in an area that has had no highspeed options. The Comcast website now gives me options for my address but I'm leary. I'm not getting my hopes up yet.

Thanks!

[MichiganRich]

Option 1. That will provide the connection to the outside world, which your Airport will then share amongst your computers.

Cross your fingers, cable high speed is nice. When you get your stuff, don't be too hasty in installing the software they send along. You likely won't need any of it, and it could cause more confusion than it's worth.

[TribeLeader]

Thanks. That's what I was thinking/hoping.

And thanks for the tip about the software (but, out of curiosity, what software do they send?).

[TribeLeader]

Also, what's recommended -- buy or lease modem?

Normally, I like the one-time fee but I'd like input.

[mduell]

What's the lease rate, what's the buy price, and how long do you expect to use the service before you move on to something better like FiOS?

[TribeLeader]

$3/month to lease and $99 to buy.

FiOS is not available here at the moment.

But there is a possibility that I will be moving out of the area in the next 2 years, in which case, leasing is probably the better option.

[chabig]

Just buy your own cable modem from a store like Best Buy, or any computer store--about $40.