Switching the "Main" computer

[Tearose70]

I have a cable modem and the WRT160N router.  It has been working fine.  The issue is that the computer that is the "main" computer will be leaving the house.  I would like to use my laptop as the main computer.  Can I do that without having to have the laptop connected to the router with cables as the PC is now?  Is there a way to simply "change/switch" the admin computer without disconnecting and reconnecting everything?

Also, how does this affect x-box live activities?  I know, I have VERY limited knowledge in the area but when thrown in the lake it's sink or swim right?

Any help is appreciated.

[gv]

There is nothing like a "main" computer". The main device is the router. Computers are connected to the router. You can use any computer to manage the router.

[Tearose70]

So can I simply disconnect the PC or do I have to change any settings first? I have downloaded the setup wizard on my laptop but was nervous to proceed without knowing a bit more. 

Any books out there that would help teach me basics since I will now be the one handling all of the computer/internet/router issues in the house?

Oh, and if I have to make changes should I be resetting the router to the factory default settings first?

[troia]

you need not make any changes on the router or the laptop or the main computer.

here is a link that shows how to setup the router for the first time for dsl connection

you need not follow the instructions there right now since you have already setup your network.

there is also a search function in the link that i gave you; there you can use to look for your technical questions.

[gv]

You can simply disconnect the PC.

The setup wizard configures the router. Your router is already configured. Do not run the setup wizard again. It's only for the initial setup of the router.

The router needs to be configured. As the router does not have any keyboard and display you need a computer to do it. That's what the setup wizard did.

Don't change anything. Don't install the wizard. Don't reset to factory defaults.

[Wendel48]

A simple test. Keep your main computer turned off and have the laptop and Xbox turned on. Do your laptop and Xbox work? They should. Now with the main computer still turned off, unplug the network cable from the main computer to the router. Everything still work?

[Tearose70]

Ok, so he took the PC and no Internet now. Have everything hooked up as it was but still nothing. We do have a hub, not sure if that makes a difference.

[Tearose70]

OK.  Up and running.  Thank you everyone.  Still have to get the x-box going but waiting till the morning.  You have all been a great help.

[Jake_2.0]

You just need to register the LAN mac address of your laptop to your ISP.The reason for that  is if in case you need to reconfigure the router then you might need to clone your PC's mac since you are subscribe to a cable connection.

[Tearose70]

Jake- Huh?  I see a MAC address on the router.. Can you give me steps on where to find these addresses on other devices and how to register?  I will be changing my internet carrier in 9 days, so is it even worth registering anything like that yet?