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  1. eHow
  2. Computers
  3. Computer Networking
  4. Home Networks

Home Networks

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  • The Ideal Bit Rate for Streaming HD Video on a Home Network

    High-definition video provides a clearer and more defined picture than the consumer digital video often found on standard DVDs. When streaming HD video, you need to stream it at a rate that's high enough to provide the full content contained in the HD video to view the stream in full high definition. Home networks are better suited for this type of streaming than the Internet because they can often support the large bandwidth and connection speeds required to stream large amounts of content.

  • How to Connect a PS3 to a Home Network Wirelessly

    The Playstation 3 (PS3) can connect to your router with an Ethernet cable or via Wi-Fi. You can use the wireless connection to play games versus other PS3 owners, download updates and games to your PS3, browse the Internet and perform other online functions. Using a wireless connection gives you the freedom to set up your PS3 anywhere in your house instead of needing to set it up in the same room as your router. You need a wireless router in order to connect your PS3 wirelessly.

  • How to Link a PS3 to the Home Network

    The PlayStation 3 is capable of connecting to the Internet through your home router with the use of an Ethernet cable. The Ethernet cable provides a direct connection to the network, and is faster than connecting through the game console's wireless tool. While the PS3 receives faster data speeds when directly connected to the Internet, it is also forced to stay nearby the router due to the wired Ethernet connection.

  • How Do You Keep an AT&T 2Wire Modem On?

    The AT&T 2Wire gateway provides a high-speed Internet connection and allows you to configure its settings through the Home Portal for maintaining a permanent point-to-point protocol (PPP) connection. The settings for a PPP connection is found in the Home Portal's Broadband Link settings, which allows you to disable the modem from automatically ending a direction connection session after a period of inactivity. The Broadband Link settings can affect your ability to connect to your DSL service and should only be changed if you are instructed to do so by a network administrator or ISP.

  • What Causes Network Strength to Drop?

    Signal strength is the single most important factor in determining how well a wireless network will perform. Many factors can contribute to signal loss, such as location and interference. However, these usually are simple to fix.

  • Switches Used in Networking

    Wired networks need more than cables connecting computers together. They need a device that directs traffic around the network. The most basic piece of hardware to perform this task is called a hub, a repeater or a splitter. Each computer on the network connects to a port on the hub using a cable. Any data entering on one port is copied onto all the other ports. A more sophisticated version of this device is called a switching hub, or a switch.

  • How to Access Your 2Wire Modem

    Pace recently acquired 2Wire, a broadband equipment manufacturer that provides telecommunications companies with hardware like modems. If you have a 2Wire modem, access its settings from your Web browser. The 2Wire modem gives you the flexibility to change system password, date and time settings from its control panel and have access to important information like Internet Protocol address, hardware address and key code. Also use your Web browser to reset the modem, if needed, and to check connectivity.

  • How to Remove a Home Group From a Desktop

    Homegroups are features specific to Microsoft Windows 7 that allow users to share files between multiple computers and access printer functions from any computer within the group. Homegroups can be created through Windows 7 Premium, Professional, Ultimate and Enterprise. Within a homegroup's local network each computer in the homegroup can set passwords and security settings to restrict other computers access to specific information. For those who are concerned about desktop security and the dangers of remote access, removing a homegroup is fast and extremely straightforward.

  • How to Delete a Windows Network

    A LAN (Local Area Network) provides network connectivity to a group of computer in close mutual proximity, such an office or a household. At various points, you may want to delete the LAN on your Windows system, whether because you are no longer using it or in order to update it and reset it.

  • How to Network Eight Computers

    Local Area Networks are based on the concept of connecting multiple computers together to share the resources contained on each of the computers, such as file and printer sharing. LANs are connected together with a network switch and Ethernet cables. The computers must also use the same protocol, which is typically TCP/IP, the Internet protocol. You can use a network switch to network eight computers together to permit access to the computers shared resources.

  • How to Build a PC Network

    A PC network consists of two or more computers that have been connected together and are capable of accessing the Internet. The computers can also be configured to share files. To do this you need to first connect the computers to the Internet by using a router. You then need to complete the setup on each of the computers and then configure Windows Internet Connection Sharing in Windows 7.

  • How to: Networking Printer Cable to a PC

    There are two different ways to configure your printer as a network printer. The method you choose will depend on the size of your network, the type of printer, and the general purpose of your network printer. The cable used will differ, depending on the type of network printer method you want to use. You can either connect the printer to a router, hub or switch, or alternatively connect it directly to a computer. If you have a large network, need constant access to the printer and have an ethernet printer, use the former method. If you want to share…

  • How to See Computers on My Wireless Network

    If you have a wireless router in your home or small business to connect to the Internet, all of the connected computers will be networked together. This is useful if you want to share files, projects or multimedia between the computers without having to use discs or removable media. It also allows you to share devices such as printers or scanners, and so your laptop in the front room could print to the printer in your office. You can view all of the connected computers by opening the "Network" option.

  • How to View the Networked Computers

    A computer network is a collection of computers and devices connected together by a set of communication standards and protocols, and is used to collaborate and share resources and information. Computer users on a network can share documents, printers and the Internet. Users on a network can also view other computers and devices on that network by accessing their Network folder from the Windows 7 Control Panel.

  • How to Access Computers on Your Home Network

    It is possible to access the files on the computers on your home network by opening the Network folder in Windows. When a computer is connected to your home network, it is visible to all of the other computers already on the network. This is convenient because if you have files you want to use on another computer on the network, you do not have to be physically in front of the computer to access the files.

  • How to See a Computer on My Home Network

    Your computer's Network folder lists all of the computers and devices connected to your home network. This includes both wired and wireless devices. If your network's configuration allows, you can use resources on the network, such as printers and gaming devices, and access files on other computers. To view the devices and computers connected to your network, you must open the Network folder. You can find the Network folder in the Control Panel of your computer.

  • How to Delete a Network From My Windows Vista Network & Sharing List

    Vista is a version of the Windows operating system, created by Microsoft. When a computer running Vista connects to a network for the first time, the operating system creates a "network profile" to speed up (e.g., by not requiring the user to enter network passwords) future connection attempts. However, old profiles for deprecated networks or network configurations can cause conflicts with newer profiles. You can delete a network profile from Vista, effectively deleting any memory Vista has of having been on that network before.

  • Ways to Network Home Computers

    A computer network is a way for computers to communicate with one another, sending and receiving data. Computer networks at home are called "local area networks" or LANs. They're useful for activities like playing games with your friends, moving data between your home computers, and printing documents or images remotely. LANs are pretty easy to set up, and there are several ways to do it, including through your home's power lines or phone lines. However, the two most popular home networks are wireless networks and Ethernet networks.

  • How to Change the PPPOe Password in 2Wire

    Your password is what tells the Internet service provider, or ISP, that you are the person who you're claiming to be, and it lets you connect to the Internet. When it comes to DSL Internet connections, PPPOe is one of the primary methods that your DSL modem uses to connect to the router. As a 2wire router acts as an Internet bridge, it will need to know your new password to connect properly.

  • How to Change a Network Magic Password

    Setting up your home network isn't always straightforward, especially if you have multiple computers and want to enable file sharing between them. Cisco's Network Magic program does all the hard work for you by creating networks and giving you the tools to manage them. Network Magic controls sensitive and secure information, so a password is helpful if you want to protect your home network. For security purposes, it's best to change the Network Magic password on a regular basis. This prevents unauthorized individuals from making changes to your network settings.

  • How to Message Other Computers on Your Network

    Occasionally, the need may arise to send a broadcast message to all of the computers on your network. Microsoft Windows provides a function that accomplishes this task. The MSG.EXE function in Windows 7 (Net Send in previous versions of Windows), when run from the Command Line window, instantly broadcasts a message to one or all users of your network. The message appears on the users' screens as a dialog box with an "OK" button to click when finished reading.

  • How to Change the Scale on a Scientific Perfmon Counter

    A Perfmon is a tool used to troubleshoot and collect data on computer systems. When used properly, it helps optimize server performance and brings potential problems to the attention of administrators. Performance data is collected from the different components of the computer, and labelled "objects." Each object has counters, which are data on different aspects of that object. Changing the scale of the counters alters their graphical appearance, and is done to help track changes in the system.

  • How to Build a Trust Relationship on a Network

    Desktop and laptop computers have abundant sources for Internet connectivity, which raises trust issues, especially when sharing a connection on a network with other PCs. Depending on how the network is configured, several known and unknown users are connected to the Internet using the same hardware device. Most concerning, however, is that other users can "see" that you are connected, presenting a security threat. However, if you feel comfortable with a particular network connection, you can set up that trusted relationship in the Windows operating system.

  • Why Can't I Access a Visible Computer on My Network?

    A Windows network is a group of computers connected using a router or hub. If you are able to view a computer on the network, but you can't access it, you must troubleshoot to identify the problem.

  • How to Troubleshoot a Network Magic That Can't Open the Wired Network

    Network Magic is a software tool released by Cisco/Linksys that simplifies home networking for the novice Internet user and ideal for those intimidated by complex cable routing and lengthy configuration procedures to build a working home Internet network. Network Magic detects Ethernet cables from high-speed Internet connections in order to walk you through configuring that Ethernet network. If you plug an Ethernet cable into your computer and Network Magic fails to recognize it, take a few simple troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue and get your Ethernet network up and running.

  • Actiontec Modem Router Won't Connect to Other Computers

    Actiontec makes various routers that allow multiple computers to connect a single Internet connection, either wired and wirelessly. Problems connecting multiple computers to the router can stem from old firmware, improper Ethernet connections, the computer's operating system, a missing or bad USB driver or the Web browser. For example, some Actiontec routers require at least Internet Explorer version 6 or better. Older versions of the browser will not operate with the router.

  • What Is the Negative Aspect of Introducing a Hub to a Network?

    Hubs are very similar to routers and switches in that they redirect traffic along a network. Hubs are usually the cheapest networking device, but also the least efficient.

  • How to Delete a Microsoft Network

    On the Microsoft Windows operating system, computers can be networked using a common network name or workgroup. By default the workgroup is an active feature in Windows that allows users to join a Microsoft network with a computer name and common workgroup name. If you want to delete the Microsoft network, however, you will have to change the workgroup name on each computer so that they are no longer connected.

  • How to Monitor Bluetooth Traffic

    Wireless Bluetooth technology isn't just used to connect a headset to your telephone --- it can also be used to establish a high-speed wireless network connection between two or more devices. The traffic over one of these connections refers to the amount and type of data that is being transmitted via Bluetooth. You can monitor this Bluetooth network traffic using the Microsoft Windows Task Manager.

  • How to Troubleshoot Network Magic

    Network Magic is a software program available for purchase to help control and monitor your network's Internet activity and the people using it. With Network Magic you can share files within your own network while protecting yourself from unwanted outside users. If you are having issues connecting with Network Magic, you can easily troubleshoot this problem within the program itself.

  • Home Automation Network Standards

    Home automation is a development of remote control technology. Light switches, thermostats and garage doors are the most common applications of the technology. There are two standards for networking in home automation. These are by transmitting signals over existing household electric wiring or by radio waves.

  • How to Expand Home Networks

    You can create a computer network at home that allows multiple computers to connect together to share resources and Internet services. If you want to expand your current home network, you can purchase a wireless router and wireless network cards for your computers. The wireless router will allow you to connect a large number of wireless computers and devices in the home, as long as the computers are within range of the router's signal. This allows you to create a network without running wires through the house.

  • How to Message Between Computers on a Home Network Router

    The Windows command line lets you send messages between two home computers attached to a router. The "net send" command lets you quickly send a message that opens a dialog box on the remote computer. This is typically used in a larger network to send alert messages to several users at once. However, it also works in small networks when you want to quickly send a message to another computer in the home.

  • How to Find Device IP Numbers on Home Networks

    When multiple computers are using a home network, a router serves as the central connection point for all computers and devices connected to it. The router also hands out IP address configuration information and keeps track of all the computers and devices on the network. By logging into the router's Web interface, the IP addresses currently assigned to the different computers and devices can be viewed.

  • How to Find Out Who is on Your Home Network with Freeware

    A wireless network is a convenient way to have all of the computers in your home access the Internet through one central router. However, if you don't set up your wireless router to be password protected, people you don't want using your network will have access. This is known as "leeching." To prevent leeching, you can add a password to your wireless router. If you're not sure if you have Internet leechers, you can use a freeware program to figure out who's connected to your network router.

  • Dual Boot System Can't Connect to Home Network

    A dual boot system allows computer users to run two separate operating systems on one computer. During system start up the user is presented with a list of operating systems installed on the machine and can choose what operating system to boot. If no choice is made, the machine will boot to the default operating system. There is no interaction between the operating systems installed. Therefore, if a system has two operating systems installed the network settings for each operating system must be configured separately in order to access the home network. This article will configure a system that has…

  • How to Enable a Password for XP Home Network Sharing

    Home networks are a great way to share documents, media and other files between computers at any time. You may wish to password-protect your shared files and folders to increase protection over certain documents. Fortunately, Windows XP Home allows you to set permissions for different types of shares so that they will require your login password to find or download the files.

  • Home Network Tools for a Remote Desktop

    If you need to connect to a remote desktop from home, then you need remote desktop software. These types of programs allow you to virtually connect with another computer, see the screen and even use your mouse and/or keyboard to control it. All of these programs require a fee to use.

  • How to Send a Chat Box on a Home Network

    If you use Microsoft Windows 7, it is possible to send messages across your local computer network to other active users. This is done using the "Msg.exe" utility through your computer's command prompt. By entering a message using the "Msg.exe" utility, you are able to send a chat box to whichever user you designate in the system. This is useful if you wish to communicate with users who are located in a separate room.

  • How to Copy Files Between Home Network Computers

    When you have a home network set up with all of the computers in your house, the process of copying files between different computers becomes much more straightforward. File and folder sharing is a built-in feature of Windows that allows you to share network resources. You won't have to go to the computer in question and copy files manually when you can turn folder shares on.

  • How to Secure Documents on a Home Network Computer

    Securing the shared documents on your home network from intruders is essential if you are worried about network security. Your home local network is usually connected wirelessly via a router or hub that will password protect the network itself however if you want to secure the documents and other shared files and multimedia then you should use the Windows Homegroup feature. The Windows Homegroup feature, introduced in Windows 7, improves sharing capabilities on your home network computers.

  • How to Monitor Internet Traffic on My Home Network

    Monitoring your Internet traffic from your home network can be useful and essential in a variety of ways. For instance, if you want to monitor traffic that occurs to and from your own website, it is helpful to be able to do so from home. Fortunately, it is possible and simple to complete this task.

  • How to Disable an Internet In-Home Network

    When using a home Internet network, it is important to know procedures for maintaining that network to guarantee the consistency of the network and to properly diagnose any problems that you may come across. If you wish to disable your network, the method for doing so is simple and can be achieved by even the least tech-savvy.

  • How to Make an Indoor Antenna Stronger

    A Wi-Fi antenna is designed to receive wireless signals from a transmitter. Increase the reception of any device that employs an indoor Wi-Fi antenna by improving its ability to receive wireless transmissions. A few household items are all that is needed and the antenna will not be compromised or modified in any way. Adult supervision is suggested if you are underage since there will be sharp edges that could cut your hands.

  • How to Log Into Another Computer on Your Home Network

    If your home network has two or more computers connected to it, you can use the Remote Desktop program to connect from one computer to the other and control the second computer as though you are sitting in front of it. All you need to know is the IP address of the computer you want to connect to (which you can find out with a few minutes of work) and have an account set up on the computer.

  • How do I Use a 2Wire Home Networking Modem As a Standalone?

    The 2Wire home networking modems are designed to be standalone solutions for your home network. Whether you have wireless computers, printers or gaming systems that you want to connect, the 2Wire modem allows you to network them all together. Most users will not need an additional router or other networking equipment.

  • How to Connect Additional Computers to a Home Network With an Actiontec Gateway

    An Actiontec gateway is a DSL modem and router built into one device. Actiontec offers both wired and wireless versions of the gateway. With both versions, you can connect up to four computers to the gateway. The wireless version can connect more than four computers, but they must be able to connect to the wireless network being broadcast by the Actiontec gateway.

  • How to Monitor Home Network Activity

    If you have several computers connected as part of a home network, you should monitor the performance of the network. Home networks enable people to play computer games against each other or transfer files from one family member to another--tasks that can only be successfully achieved if the network is functioning satisfactorily.

  • How to Reset McAfee to Manage My Network

    When you install McAfee VirusScan on your computer, the software has the ability to monitor and maintain your home computer network. It can scan files being transferred from computer-to-computer for viruses to make sure any one computer does not infect the entire network. If your McAfee installation has been configured to not manage your network, you can reset these settings and get it back up in a couple of minutes.

  • How to Delete an Exisitng Windows Home Network

    Windows operating systems have a feature that allows you to easily connect to computers and devices that share a work group or home network name. You may want to delete a previously set up network from one computer if you are moving it from your home or in order to limit that computer's access to your network. To delete the entire network you must remove it from all of the computers that it exists on.

  • How to Connect to a Computer on a Home Network

    Connecting additional computers to a home network is simple with the right networking supplies. If one computer is already set up on the home network then all you will need is a router and Ethernet cable to connect the other computers, or connect wirelessly using the router. Follow the directions for setting up the router, including any security measures, to ensure successful connections for all computers you want to connect to your network.

  • How to Link Apple Computers on a Home Network

    Computer systems that are connected together on a home network are typically machines that run the Windows operating system. However, if you have Apple computers, they too are able to be linked together to create a home network. This can be done by using an Ethernet hub, a crossover cable or a router to connect all of the computers together.

  • How to Test a Home Network's Security

    Testing the security of your home network is important, enabling you to rest easy knowing that others are not able to piggyback upon or intercept the packets from your home wireless network. Accomplish this by checking the network security settings within the router of your home network, ensuring that the proper settings are enabled and active to maximize your security potential.

  • Deleting an Existing Windows Home Network

    Once you've set up a new Windows Home network, it is important to delete the previous homegroup on your computer to ensure that your computer doesn't attempt to connect to the older network. Deleting your previous Windows homegroup is also important when reselling or donating your computer in order to protect your private information, as files that were transferred from other computers may remain on your computer. Once the homegroup is deleted, your computer and all other computers that use the older network will not be able to share files or wirelessly print using a printer attached to the previous…

  • How to Use a Router to Make a 2-Computer Home Network

    You can use a router to connect two computers and create a network for your home. A network allows two computers to share files, folders, printers and Internet connection. Certain software can also be shared between computers. You can purchase a router online or from any computer retail store. This router can be wired or wireless, depending on the type of network you would like to set up. Both computers will also need to have a network card to make the network connection. Network cards are usually installed on desktop computers by default, but can also be purchased at a…

  • How to Setup a Home Network With Illustration

    Setting up a local network in your home is a fairly simple affair, owing to the networking tools present in modern iterations of the Windows operating system. The physical connection of your computers to your network utility will perform the basic configuration, after which you will only need to tweak a quick setting in your operating system. This enables you to share files, an Internet connection and share printers.

  • How to Connect a Second Computer to a Home Network

    A simple thing such as connecting another computer to your network might become much more complicated than you might have thought, especially when put into practice. To successfully integrate your new computer with the network, you must first create a means by which other computers communicate with it and recognize it within your local area network. Sharing the same Internet connection with another computer across a router isn't enough when you want to also access that particular computer from another one within your home, as in the case of network drive mapping.

  • What Are the Differences Between Home & Business Networks?

    Computer networking for home and business has many similarities as technology advances. A large home network might look similar to a very small business network, yet there are still some key differences. Business networks support more users and offer services that home networks don't. Business users require more security and internal network structure than do home users. Business networks make greater use of Virtual Private Networks to give workers mobility.

  • How to Get Started With Network Magic

    Cisco Network Magic is a networking program that can help you to share files, protect your computer against online threats and troubleshoot your Internet connection. Getting started with Network Magic is accomplished by using the startup wizard to configure your settings and start the protection conferred by Network Magic in a matter of minutes.

  • How to Monitor the Bandwidth of a Home Network

    The term "bandwidth" is a measure of how much computer data can be transmitted over any type of network connection at one time. This measure is indicated by your network connection's speed. Both home local area networks and regular Internet connections have bandwidth, and the amount that you have will directly affect how fast you can transfer files between two sources. If you want to monitor the bandwidth of a home network, you will need to use Windows' Task Manager.

  • Computer Home Network Basic Information

    There are two basic network types that can be implemented in a home environment: wireless and ethernet-based networks. In both of these network systems, a router, a device that interconnects two or more computer systems, is used to direct traffic between the computers and other hardware devices connected to the network. The router also allows for all the devices to share one Internet connection. A DSL or cable modem is terminated to the router from where other computers can connect and access the Internet either via a wired or a wireless connection.

  • How to Monitor Traffic With a Home Network

    All of the data that is being transmitted from computer to computer over your home network is called "traffic." Even if computers aren't actually engaged in file transferring, they are still part of your network's overall traffic just by being on. If you want to monitor the traffic on your home network, you need look no further than a program that comes built into Windows called the Task Manager.

  • How to Create & Configure Home Networks With Apple Macintosh Computers

    Connecting and configuring access to your home network is extremely simple using the Mac OS X operating system on your Apple computer. The hardest part of the process will be simply configuring the router and modem and creating the network. Many different brands of routers are available, and the process for creating the network for each is a little different. However, your router will come with a set of instructions that will make it easy and you'll be surfing the web in no time.

  • How to Share Files Between Computers on a Home Network

    Home computer systems that are on a network have the ability to share files between each other. This is facilitated by the router, which connects the computers, and the operating systems, which allow the computers to connect and transfer files back and forth.

  • How to Network Home Computers Running Different Versions of Windows

    Creating a home network allows you to share files and printers, stream music, play games and more. Fortunately, different versions of Microsoft Windows network with each other with relative ease--and only a small number of unique issues need to be addressed.

  • How to Sync Two Computers on a Home Network

    Syncing together computers on a home network can be accomplished by placing them on the same workgroup, which is akin to dialing them both in to the same general frequency. This will allow the computers to communicate across the network in an easier fashion, facilitating smoother network transactions across your home network setup.

  • How to Setup a Home Network With Wireless & Wired Computers

    A home network allows you to network wireless and wired computers together. You can share files, documents, music, and more over a home network. Printers and other peripheral devices can also be shared, making it easy to get printing done from any computer.

  • How to Use a 2Wire Home Networking Modem as a Stand-Alone

    Stand-alone modems are the single piece of equipment you need to connect to the Internet. This means there is less clutter since there are no other routers or switches involved. Stand-alone modems can be used to connect the computers, printers and gaming systems within your home. All 2Wire home networking gateway models have an interface, and work with any Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) provider.

  • How to Monitor Your Home Remotely with a Panasonic Network Camera

    Use a BL-C131A camera to watch your home remotely. Wonder what your bodies do while you are at work? Is the abettor bubbler again? Don't affirmation your roommates? Did the dog ambler discount to arise today? Are the kids throwing a activity at your address while you're on vacation? Want to accrue an eye on your affluence admiral while you are at home? There are a amateur affirmation to install a hidden camera at your home or office. Installing a advocacy camera adjustment has frequently been both big-ticket and difficult. But not anymore. The Panasonic BL-C131A wireless adjustment camera sells…

  • How to Add a Computer to a Wired Home Network

    A home network is a simple and easy way to share resources between two or more computers. You can share Internet service, files, printers and other hardware. A wired network is not as nice looking as a wireless network, but it is more secure and simpler to install and add computers as part of the network. All you need are at least two computers, a network card, a router and RJ45 network cables.

  • Comparison of Home Network Router & Network Hub

    Routers and hubs connect computers together so administrators can create an extended home or office network. Although both devices connect computers, they function differently. The basic differences can determine the way the network functions and routes traffic.

  • How to Troubleshoot a Laptop Not Connecting to a Home Network

    Laptops use wireless connections to connect to the network. Some laptops are built with hardwire network cards, but a majority use wireless for the travel convenience. Laptops are becoming more popular because of that convenience. If your laptop isn't connecting to the network, there are some basic troubleshooting steps you can take to figure out the problem.

  • How to Network a Home Computer & Laptop

    Setting up two computers so they can share information back and forth is a common home networking project and one that most computer owners running Windows XP or better can do successfully without the need for "expert" assistance. Make sure both computers have functioning ethernet adapters and are connected to your network before you begin.

  • How Do I Allow My Computer to Be Seen on My Home Network?

    If you have several computers being used at home, it's a good idea to set up a home network which allows you to share Internet and printing connectivity as well as making file sharing quick and easy. When you encounter inter-connectivity issues among your network computers, there are a couple things you can do to find the problem and resolve it promptly.

  • How to Attach a Hard Drive to a Home Network

    A home network is an excellent way to share system resources and allow every member of the family to access the files on all networked computers. Connecting a large-capacity hard drive to the home network is a great way to make the network even more useful. That hard drive can be used to store audio files, home movies and photographs. Follow these simple steps to accomplish this goal.

  • How to Delete a Microsoft Windows Home Network

    Microsoft Windows operating systems feature a home network parameter that allows you to link with other computers, servers and networked devices with a common workgroup or network name. If you decide to sell your computer, give your computer to a relative or friend, or want to limit access to your computer's files and folders, you should change your workgroup name. In order to delete a Microsoft Windows home network, you'll need to have administrator access so that you can alter your computer's workgroup name.

  • How to Delete Windows Home Network & Start Over

    Networking your PC devices can greatly expand their capabilities and ease of use. But while creating and joining a Windows network has become much easier over the past few years, you will probably find that if you no longer want a network you created, the steps to delete it are significantly less obvious. Fortunately, on Windows Vista or Windows 7, it isn't too difficult once you know the steps.

  • How to Delete an Existing Windows Home Network

    If you have created a Windows home network that you no longer need you may want to remove it from your computer. Deleting a Windows home network is a fairly simple process that you can do on your own. However, the process varies depending on which version of Windows you currently have on your home computer. To fully delete the Windows home network, remember to remove it from each of the computers you had set up on the network.

  • How to Access a Home Network Over the Internet

    Accessing your network from afar is possible with the inclusion of the Remote Desktop option available in Windows XP Professional or the Business, Professional and Ultimate versions of Windows Vista and 7. Remote Desktop will give you full access over your home computer and home network from any other PC with an Internet connection. Enabling Remote Desktop will take some time, but the results will be well worth it when you consider the added productivity made possible.

  • Windows 7 Troubleshooting: Can't See Home Network

    A Home Network on your Windows 7 based computer allows you to communicate and share information with other computers on the network. If you can't see your Home Network, there are several steps you can take to resolve the issue, including checking the network connection, the network discovery set-up, and the operating systems of all the computers on the network.

  • How to Find the Encryption Key for ATT Uverse Wireless Home Network

    I recently tried to connect a computer to our Uverse Residential Gateway (modem) which has an integral wireless home network system. After installing the driver for the wireless adapter on the computer, it asked for an "Encryption Key". I had no idea what it was, so a long and tedious call to Uverse support provided the answer. They are very good at helping but I always have to go through 3-4 persons before getting someone to help. They call it a "Wireless Network Key", so looking for an encryption key on their website was futile. I hope this will save…

  • How to Control Another Computer on Your Home Network

    Whether you're out of the office or helping a family member with his computer, remote desktop access allows you to control and edit settings and documents on another computer using your own computer. This feature comes in handy when there is a problem that requires you to be at the computer, as you can view the other computer's desktop as if you were in front of it. Other features include application access, file sharing and remote printing.

  • What Do I Need to Do to Access My Network at Home From a Different Internet Connection?

    If you need to access your network at home from a different Internet connection, such as your work Internet connection, it's an easy process to do, provided that you have some basic software that's pre-installed on most Windows computers, as well as access to download a small program. This remote connection that you will form between one network to the other will be secure and allow you to work as though you are sitting in front of your home computer no matter where you are.

  • How Do I Add Computers to My Home Network?

    If you have a home network, adding a new computer so that it can access printers and files is a necessity. Windows makes it simple to expand your home network in just a few simple steps. Whether the computer connects to the network through a LAN connection or a wireless connection, integrating it into your Windows home network is easy. You can set up the additional computer using a wired connection and a portable storage device, such as a CD or USB drive, or by manually inputting the settings on the computer.

  • How to Monitor a Home Network

    While a home network has the advantage of allowing multiple computers to share resources, if one computer is using these resources in excess then it can result in network congestion and general slowdowns for the other computers. Microsoft Windows has a built-in application known as "Performance Monitor" that can be used to monitor the resource usage of computers on your home network, allowing you to know exactly where potential problems are so that you can correct them.

  • How to Network 3 Home Computers

    When using home computers, it often becomes desirable or even necessary to connect the computers via a network. This home network, called a local area network (LAN), allows the computers to send and receive files, play interactive games and share a single Internet connection. The establishment of a simple home LAN today is easier than ever, owing to an increase in the demand for simple yet functional networking technologies that the do-it-yourself enthusiast can implement successfully. Find out how to network Windows PCs by creating a wired LAN, assuming that the Windows PCs are standard modern types that each have…

  • How to Configure Home Networks

    Setting up wireless home networks is a cinch if you have your network components in place and the special Internet address supplied by your wireless router manufacturer in hand. With this address accessed through your web browser, you can select a password to protect your network and establish a type of data encryption. Even someone relatively unfamiliar with networking processes can handle this setup swiftly.

  • About Switches vs. Hubs for Home Networking

    In home networking, switches and hubs may look the same, but hubs communicate in cycles through network connections, and switches only send information to the destination computer. Learn about limitations to hubs that switches don't have with help from a specialist in computer and network administration in this free video on home networking.

  • Define DSL Filter

    In some networking environments, the use of converters and splitters are necessary to avoid the large cost of redesigning an infrastructure. Telephone carrier lines were originally not intended but rather adapted for high speed data transfer, thus necessitating the need for several data converting devices.

  • How to Setup a Home Network

    Setup a home network on a computer in Microsoft Windows by clicking on the control panel to gain access to the network and internet connections program. Learn more about setting up a home network on a PC with tips from a computer specialist in this free video on Microsoft Windows.

  • How to Network Your Home Computers

    When networking home computers, make sure file sharing is on, which allows others to access that computer. Network home computers with tips from a computer specialist in this free video on computer networking.

  • How to Create a Shared Drive on a Home Network

    Creating a shared drive on a home computer network requires a network drive and changing the setting from Read-Only to Read and Write. Set up a shared drive on a computer with tips from a computer specialist in this free video on computer networking.

  • How to Setup a Wireless Network at Home

    Setting up a wireless network at home can be done in a snap. As long as you have an existing internet service and a modem, your broadband connection can be utilized by a wireless router and a wireless signal can be cast throughout your home, allowing you to access the internet sans wires. With your wireless router documentation in hand and a few settings put together, your wireless network can be accessed with little hassle and headache.

  • How to Setup Wireless Printing for a Home Network

    It is increasingly common to have several computers and laptops in one household. However, it is not necessary to buy a separate printer for each computer. Aside from the cost of each printer, buying the replacement cartridges for the printers can become very expensive. An alternative to buying additional printers is to buy a printer server that can be shared wirelessly by all computers on your home network. You don't have to be a computer geek to install a wireless printer server.

  • How to Setup a Home Network by Ethernet With No Router

    A home network doesn't always involve a router. Networks involving only two computers can be connected by Ethernet cable without the need for a router. Three or more computers require a hub. These networks allow you to share files and programs between computers and also access any devices connected to the computers. For instance, a printer can be shared by being connected to only one computer. You can also share Internet access if you want.

  • How to Create a Home Network

    Working with many devices in your home usually requires a home network. Each device added to this network communicates with each other. Share printers, computers and multimedia devices on the same home network between several users.

  • How to Setup a Home Network in Vista

    Setting up a home network allows you to access multiple computers through one system. This network can be used to share and transfer files and data, such as documents, music files and videos. Network users also have access to peripheral equipment, such as printers and scanners. Setting up a home network on Vista is fast and easy using the Vista Network Set-Up Wizard.

  • How to Setup a Home Network Using Cross Over Cable

    A cross-over cable--also called a CAT 5 cable--will allow two computers to be connected into a network. Once these computers are networked together, you have the ability to see or access files on either computer, since the computers can communicate with one another. To set up a home network, you will also need to have network interface cards (NICs) installed. Setting up a home network is fairly simple and can give you the benefit of having access to more than one computer at the touch of a button.

  • How to Wire a Home Network

    All the items you may require to wire your home for networking are commonly available at most local hardware stores. This article addresses some of the planning and implementation issues you may face as you approach wiring your home for computer networking

  • Installing a Home WiFi Network

    The heart of a home WiFi network is a reliable wireless router. This piece of equipment is responsible for receiving radio signals from networked computers, translating those signals into Internet Protocol (IP) data packets and routing the packets according to their destination. For Internet-enabled WiFi networks, the router is also responsible for directing IP data traffic to the Internet and back to the originating computer, sometimes handling up to 253 simultaneous connections. Wireless routers are readily available from a local electronics store or chain retailer, and range in price from around $30 to more than $100. Popular brands like Linksys,…

  • How to Setup a Linux Server for a Home Network

    Linux, the freely available UNIX alternative designed to run on personal computers, has become a popular choice for users who wish to establish a server on a home network. Because the operating system is inexpensive (and often free), inherently network capable and stable, it offers many of the qualities desirable in a networking server.

  • How to Setup a Home Network Using a Router

    A network is a group of nodes (mostly computers and printers) connected by a router and is able to share common resources, namely an Internet connection, servers and printers. A router is a networking device that allows data transfer between computers. Routers can be as simple as the device supplied by your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or as sophisticated as the complex switches that keep the web running smoothly and efficiently. This article will explain how to set up a home network using a router.

  • How to Setup an Ethernet Home Network

    An Ethernet Home Network, often referred to as a local area network (LAN), is a computer setup in which several computers are hardwired together using Ethernet cables. They can share information, and potentially, an Internet connection. Since many households today contain several computers, and one of the primary functions of computers is Internet access, home networking has become extremely common.

  • How to Install a Broadband Home Network

    A home network can make sharing files from one home computer to another quite easy. Your network is also an easy way to share a broadband Internet connection with every computer in your house, letting you use the network as a single point of entry for the Internet instead of having a separate connection for each PC. Setting up a broadband home network is easy, and once it is in place you will be able to add on to it or change its configuration as needed.

  • Installing a Home Network

    Installing a home network may seem like a difficult job, but it is relatively easy.

  • How to Setup a Home Network on XP

    In previous versions of Windows, setting up a network was somewhat of a difficult job, requiring a large amount of manual configuration before the network would function properly. Windows XP's automatic network configuration wizard turns this into a quick and easy task that anyone can do in less than five minutes, without any networking experience or formal computer training.

  • How to Setup a Home Network Printer

    Home networks usually include a modem, a router and a computer at a minimum. These enable the computer to access the Internet with a degree of protection. More sophisticated network setups include multiple computers, hubs and switches, and other devices like printers. Read the steps below for help setting up a home network printer.

  • About Home Network Shared Drives

    Home network shared drives are exactly that; hard drives, accessible via the home network that two or more users can access. Though there are a large number of permutations possible, most home networks use a fairly common method, an external drive attached to one of the network nodes. As hard drives become both larger and less expensive, and networks (both wired and wireless) are now plug-and-play out of the box, it's a simple process for the lay user to set up a shared drive on a home network.

  • About Switches Vs Hubs for Home Networking

    Setting up a home network that lets all of your computers access the Internet at the same time can be a daunting task for the average person. Hubs and switches both serve the purpose of connecting all of your computers together, but they work in very different ways.

  • How to Build Wireless Home Network

    Wireless home networking is a system that allows you to network or connect more than one device in your home together, without wires, to share their resources. These can be desktop or laptop computers, cellular phones, Global Positioning Systems (GPS), printers and any other Wi-Fi enabled devices. Networking them allows you to connect them to the Internet at the same time or share your printer among many computers.

  • How to Connect Two Routers on One Home Network

    You may wonder why anyone might want to do this, but it's not that uncommon to connect two routers on one home network. One reason for using two routers is to allow additional computers to access the Internet. You may have two hard wire routers simply to double the number of available ports to connect additional computers. Or you may have two wireless routers bouncing signals across a greater distance. You can also have one wireless and one hard wire router, which is the example used in this article. The second router basically acts as a glorified switch to increase…

  • How to Play NES Games Over a Home Network

    Playing multiplayer games on the Nintendo Entertainment System used to be easy: You'd put in a game, plug in two controllers, hand one to your friend and start gaming. As newer and more powerful systems started to come out, old favorites fell by the wayside in favor of the new flavors of the month. Now, using only a few simple tools, you can relive the glory days and play multiplayer NES games once again. This time, however, you don't even need the system. You can easily and quickly play NES games over a home network.

  • How to Block Hackers on Your Wireless Home Network

    Do the terms LAN, Network, Wireless or Security send you running toward the hills? You're not alone. Many people would rather carry on with their carefree web surfing at home than worry about this important aspect of wireless internet. Don't be fooled, hackers are a major threat and can do tremendous damage to your computer or even steal personal information. This guide explains how adding two simple things to your wireless home network can stop virtually all external hackers. Instead of being complicated, securing your wireless internet is actually a piece of cake.

  • How to Manage a Home Network With Network Magic

    Connecting multiple computers, printers, and network attached storage devices can be a tremendous hassle. If you happen to own Windows Vista and XP computers, then you already know how much hard work is involved with getting them to communicate on one home network. Luckily, there are plenty of helpful applications that take away the numerous hours of trying to get devices to network with one another. With a few simple tips, you'll learn how to manage a home network with Network Magic.

  • How to Protect a Home Network

    With the average price of personal computers falling in the last few years, it has become fashionable to have more than one computer at home. Some of these desktops and laptops are networked to share resources like Internet access, printers and scanners. Most of these home networks are not secure. Outsiders can log on to the network, surf the Internet and even hack into the systems. There are ways to secure your home network.

  • How to Prevent Others From Accessing a Home Network

    Security of data is an important issue in any network - home or corporate. Unauthorized access to a network can play havoc with all the information stored, compromising the interests of network users. Aside from accessing sensitive information, hackers can use your PC as a platform to launch viruses and other programs harmful for others on the network. Here is how you can prevent others from accessing a home network.

  • How to Secure a Home Network

    Most homes today have more than one PC, which the homeowners eventually turn into a network. Depending on family requirements, the home network may be wired, wireless with or without an Internet connection. Home networks have their specific security-related issues. Wi-Fi home networks with Web access are particularly vulnerable to viruses and hackers. With no dedicated network administrator around, members using the home network need to be cautious while managing such networks. Here is how you can keep your home network secure.

  • How to Backup Files on a Home Network

    Backing up your files on a home network is necessary to prevent data loss. Storing your data on home network for backup is considered a simple process. It allows you to retrieve your data from other computers in the event a hard disk crashes on one of the computers on the network.

  • How to Network Your Home Computers

    Do you have more than one computer at home? If so, then networking them is recommended. This will allow you to share files, folders, a printer, a scanner and other hardware devices, as well as an Internet connection. Networking home computers is useful if you need to share data on a regular basis. There are two main types of networking methods-Ethernet and Wireless. Know the process of networking and choose for one that suits your needs.

  • How to Create a Shared Drive on a Home Network

    Networking computers allow you to share data through the hard drives of every computer within the network. You need to configure the hard drive for sharing data. This works differently, as it depends on the version of Windows OS running on your computer. Check your computer's operating system and follow the steps below to set up a shared drive.

  • How to Store Files on a Home Network

    Many homes have more than one PC and homeowners often connect them to form a network, which enables users to store and share files easily. Here is how to store files on a home network.

  • How to Organize a Home Network

    You've got a broadband Internet connection to your house or home office--now it's time to hook it up to all your computers and other Internet-ready devices. If you're at all apprehensive about taking on this project yourself, bring in a professional.

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