How to Set Up an Ethernet Network
An Ethernet network is a network of computers that are connected by Ethernet cables, though the network can also be wireless or use power-line adapters. Learn the basics of how to set up an Ethernet network in your home so that the entire family can share photos, videos and other content with each other.
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Things You'll Need
- Modem
- Router
- Ethernet cables
- Wireless router or a power-line AV kit (optional)
Instructions
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1
Connect the modem to the Internet. Cable Internet uses a cable modem, usually provided by your Internet Service Provider, to connect to a cable jack. DSL will also require a modem, but it will connect to a phone jack. Most Internet Service Providers will perform this step for free at the time service begins.
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2
Sit the router somewhere near the modem. Plug in the router's power cord and then flip the router around so the back of the router is visible. There should be a number of Ethernet ports located here. One port will be kept slightly apart from the others, and this is the port which needs to receive the incoming connection from the Internet modem. There should be a similar port on your Internet modem (most modems have only one such port). Take an Ethernet cable and plug it into the Ethernet port on the back of the modem. Then plug the other end of the cable into the Ethernet port on the router.
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3
Connect the computers to the router to complete the network. Take another Ethernet cable and plug it into one of the ports on the back of the router, then plug the other end into the Ethernet adapter on your PC. Repeat the process for the second computer. Windows should automatically detect the connection.
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Modify Windows settings in order to allow for the sharing of files between computers. Go to "Network and Sharing Center" in the Control Panel. Turn on all of the options and set passwords where appropriate for extra security.
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Tips & Warnings
If two computers are too far away to use Ethernet cables, use a wireless network. Purchase a wireless router instead of, not in addition to, the normal router. Make a connection between the router and the modem. This will create an un-secure wireless network. Refer to the router's manual for instructions on how to make the wireless network secure.
To create a power-line network, purchase two power-line adapters. Run an Ethernet cable from the router to one power-line adapter, then plug that adapter into a wall socket. Plug the second adapter into a wall socket in the same room as the second computer, and then run an Ethernet cable from the second adapter to the second computer. The connection will be automatically detected by Windows, and does not need to be secured.
Power-line adapters cannot be connected to surge protectors.
