How to Set Up a Home Network on Windows XP

A home computer network allows you to share files and other resources like printers among all the computers connected to the network. A home network also allows each computer to connect to the Internet simultaneously using a single service subscription. If you have more than one Windows XP computer in your home, you can set up a home network with a minimum of additional hardware using software included in the operating system.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• DSL or cable modem
• Home network router
• Networking cables

1. Plug one end of the network cable supplied with your router into the network port on your DSL or cable modem. Plug the other end of the cable into the port labeled WAN or WLAN on the back of your router. This port generally sits slightly apart from other ports on a router. Connect your computers to the remaining open ports using additional network cables.

2. Install any network connection software supplied with your router on one computer. This will guide your router through the process of connecting with your service provider's modem and will allow you to apply various settings, such as network passwords and security, should you so desire.

3. 
    
   Open "Control Panel" to the Network Setup Wizard.

   Run the Network Setup Wizard on each networked computer.

4. 
    
   Be sure to choose the correct connection method!

   Click through to the "Select a Connection Method" screen. Choose "This Computer Connects To The Internet Through Another Computer On My Network or Through a Residential Gateway".

5. 
    
   No spaces are allowed in computer names.

   Continue in the Network Setup Wizard to the "Give This Computer a Description and a Name" dialog box. Choose whatever name you like, within the number of characters allowed. Each computer on the network must have a different name. Using the "Computer Description" dialog box is optional.

6. 
    
   Remember the name you choose. You'll use it on your other computers

   Click "Next" to the "Name Your Network" screen. A default name, such as "workgroup" or "mshome", is supplied. You may use it or change it, but this information must be the same on all computers on your network.

7. 
    
   This choice will make it easy to share resources.

   Click "Next" to the File and Printer Sharing page and select "Turn on file and printer sharing".

8. 
    
   Your network settings will be applied to each networked machine when it is rebooted.

   Click "Next" and apply the settings on each computer on your network, then click through to "Finish" and reboot to make your home network operational.

Tips & Warnings

• Read your router's documentation for installation instructions specific to your router model. Be sure all computers are assigned to the same workgroup. Buy network cables at the length you need online, at computer retailers and home electronics outlets.

Resources

• Setting Up Your Microsoft Windows Network