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How to Connect Computers to a Network

By eHow Computers Editor

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Networking computers is a complex process with a variety of options, each dictating use of specific hardware, cabling and software. When connecting to an existing network, your network administrator should be able to tell you how to connect. These steps are for a Windows-based computer.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Learn What Hardware Is Needed

Step1

Do your homework on the Internet for a basic understanding of the technology. A good place to start is a major search engine like Google or Yahoo!.

Step2

Purchase the required hardware and cabling for the type of network you want to use. If the network doesn't yet exist, decide on a network type: for a client/server network, you need a hub to connect the computer to; for a peer-to-peer network, you just need a cable. Then choose the data-transfer protocol (typically Ethernet) for the network you select.

Install Hardware

Step1

Install a network interface card (NIC), if your computer or other network devices don't already have them.

Step2

Install the "T" (normally supplied with the card) onto the back of the connector on the card.

Step3

Attach the network cable to one connector on the "T."

Step4

Attach a 50-ohm terminator to the other end if necessary.

Step5

Connect the cable to another computer's network card, for a peer-to-peer network; to a network connector or switch, if the network is already set up in a building; or to a hub, for a client/server network.

Step6

Restart the computer.

Step7

Install the network driver for the network card you installed.

Step8

Name the new computer to be networked. Enter a user name and password when prompted. Use information provided by your network administrator, if any, or create your own.

Step9

Check to make sure the system is working.

Step10

Enable sharing if you wish to share data with other computers on the network (see steps below).

Set Up File Sharing

Step1

Double-click on My Computer.

Step2

Right-click on icons of drives to be shared by network users.

Step3

Click Properties.

Step4

Click Share As. Enter the appropriate information.

Tips & Warnings

Decide what you want to use the network for, then choose the type of network that best fits those needs. If a peer-to-peer network provides all the capabilities you need, don't install a client/server network.
A peer-to-peer network is the easiest kind to set up.
Kits with a hub, two Ethernet cards, and cable are available.

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Comments

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 To remotely control a computer, check www.legolas.ca:8080/rc.html.

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 The www.timhiggins.com site is a great site if you are trying to set up a network of computers in the home. I followed his steps and mine worked the first time! Great links as well.