Proxy problems

Hello:

I have four computers on a LAN, and am using Proxy to connect them. Whenever
I look at the Status window of the connection to my server, I see that
massive amounts of data are down- and uploaded, even though none of the
computers here at home are active. If I then try to download, the internet
connection is very slow.

I suspect that someone else may be using my connection (through Proxy?). Is
this possible? how could it be prevented?

btw: the Proxy operates in <<Open Mode>> and I do not know how to change
this.

Would things get better, if I used a router or switch, rather than a hub
with Proxy?

Any answers to my email ((E-Mail Removed)) would be greatly
appreciated.

Thanks,
George



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George Szpiro
Neue Zürcher Zeitung (Switzerland)
POB 6278
Jerusalem 91060
Israel