How to Set Up a Network on XP Pro

Connecting computers through a network can be useful even if you are only connecting a small number of machines. When computers are networked, they can share files and documents, software applications, and even peripherals like printers and scanners. Windows XP Professional has built-in support for a network that can be used by a small office or a home network. Additionally, Windows XP includes a wizard that can help you set up a network in XP Pro that is well-suited to connecting a small number of computers.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Click the "Start" button, then click the "Run" icon on the Start menu. This will open a Run window.

2. Type netsetup.cpl in the "Open" box in the Run window, then click the "OK" button. This will open the Network Setup Wizard.

3. Click the "Next" button to progress through two pages of the Network Setup Wizard containing background information. At the "Select a Connection Method" page, choose your connection method, then press the "Next" button. If you are unsure which connection method is correct, leave the setting on its default choice.

4. Type a computer description and a computer name in the labeled boxes on the "Give this computer a description and name" page, then click the "Next" button.

5. Type the name you have chosen for your network in the "Workgroup name" box on the "Name your network" page. Then click the "Next" button.

6. On the "File and printer sharing" page, click a radio button to choose whether or not to share files and printers Then click the "Next" button through the following three pages to reach the end of the Network Setup Wizard.

7. Click the "Finish" button in the Network Setup Wizard. Then click the "Yes" button in the confirmation prompt window to restart your computer and complete the process.

References

• Microsoft information on setting up networks in Windows XP