devonps
Wow thanks for your reply! It really does seem that it shows I am a complete noob at networking!
If I may, I would like to address some of your questions, for myself as well as you and others!
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This implies you want your new PC to be multi tasking, i.e. Network attached storage(NAS), print server and a DHCP server as well. Depending on your hardware specs ALL of these tasks are possible from one box/server.
I'm not sure why you want to take over the DHCP tasks, when your current wireless router is doing a good enough job.
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The reason I suggested this is that I have noticed from other professional network setups is that there has always been a "master PC" that other PC's connect to the internet through and this machine controls the access for other pc's that are on the network, granted they have always been connected via a wired hub instead of wireless, so this is why I said this, but if all machines going through the router are ok, then this is good enough for me!
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Have you considered purchasing a ready made solution for your network storage?
Also what about using a Linux flavour to satisfy your needs, e.g. Ubuntu - server edition 8.04LTS
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As I am on a really tight budget (currently unemployed due to back injury) I am only on benefits at the moment, and I have a choice of WindowsXP, Windows Server 2003 or Windows Home Server(which is basically Windows Server 2003 with extras for home networking) and I'm affraid I know diddly squat about Linux or ubuntu, and I feel that Windows is for me (certainly not dissing Lunux, but I have been told it takes a lot to 'get into' and I wouldnt know where to begin with that!)
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This can be confusing at times, I suggest you look into providing a static IP address for your NAS.
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Would this work with my Virgin Broadband? I was under the impression that being as the cable modem is DHCP that I had to use it throughout the network? (sorry, told you I'm new to this!)
I will knock up a quick diagram of the layout of the house and position of everything, and hopefully it will help to understand better!
Thanks awefully again devonps, you have really given me things to think about!
EDIT: added a basic, modest diagram, hope it will help clearer the picture somewhat!