How to Convert a Computer Into a Network Hub

Turning a computer into a network hub is not as difficult as it once was. With the ability to achieve wireless access, creating a wireless network takes very little equipment and only about an hour of time. Making sure your future network hub is using the most up-to-date hardware and software will ensure a successful network creation. Here are the simple steps to help you turn a computer into a network hub.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer Network card DSL or cable modem Wireless router Internet service provider

1. Get a computer that has WiFi ability. This means that your computer can access wireless Internet signals. This also means that your computer is up to date and can support either cable or DSL Internet service.

2. Check to see that your computer is able to support a network card. Most computers today can, and many come with the card already installed. Usually the network card will have a USB port to connect into. This typically can be found at the lower left side at the back of the computer.

3. Connect to a high-speed Internet provider. Using anything slower than DSL will most often slow down the network and the ability to stay connected during storms or disruptions. When you have DSL or cable service installed you will get a modem that will connect the service directly to your computer via an ethernet cable. This cable looks much like a regular phone line only much thicker and able to deliver information at greater speeds.

4. Connect the modem and cable according to the manufacturer instructions, or have a service person connect these for you. Having the service person connect the device is a better option because you can also have him ensure that the modem is in proper working condition.

5. Buy a wireless router. Try to buy one of high quality because you will notice dropped signals and lower transfer speeds with lower-grade routers. You are going to connect the DSL or cable modem directly to the router, which then connects to your computer. This gives you instant wireless access to the modem.

6. Set up the wireless network on your computer. This computer will become the network hub for the remaining computers that can access the network. Because the computer will still be connected to the modem via the router, it will become the stationary unit.

7. Set up the network signal on this computer and set up file sharing on your computer. You will need both to let other computers access the network hub. Disable the hidden network feature because other computers in your network will not be able to find your hub if you allow this.

8. Configure the remaining computers to wireless access. Then configure them to find the closest network, which will be your own network. Name the network for easier locating if there are many networks around you or close by.