How to Connect Two Computers Together

With modern computers, you can readily connect two computers so they can share files. As long as both computers have a LAN port, a LAN cable will allow a connction. Older computers require a null modem serial cable, which attaches to the serial ports, or a parallel cable that attaches to the printer port on both computers.

Things You'll Need

• LAN ports on both computers
• LAN cable
• Null modem serial cable
• Serial ports on both computers
• Parallel cable
• Parallel (printer) ports on both computers

Instructions

LAN Connections

1. Turn both computers off. Plug one end of the LAN cable into the LAN port on the first computer.

2. Plug the opposite end of the cable into the LAN port on the second computer.

3. Start both computers. If you are using Windows, you should see the network connection icon flashing in your system tray.

4. Click on "Network Neighborhood" or "My Network Connections" on your desktop. You should see the second computer listed as part of the network. If not, proceed to Step 5.

5. Click on "Create a New Connection" from the side bar if you are using Windows XP. Other versions of Windows will have similar language to set up the network.

6. Follow the onscreen instructions to set up the network of two computers.

7. Share the files or drives you want to access on the second computer. Do this by right-clicking on the drive or file and choosing the "Sharing" option on the second computer. If you want to be able to share files from both computers, share the files and drives on both machines.

Null Serial Modems or Parallel Cables

1. Turn off both computers. Connect one end of the serial or parallel cable to each computer's corresponding port.

2. Start both computers, allowing each to fully boot and load the operating system.

3. Create a new network connection by clicking on "Start" and then "Connect to." Choose "Create a New Connection" from the options given.

4. Choose "Set up an advanced connection" from the options given, and then click "Next."

5. Select "Connect directly to another computer" on the screen and click "Next."

6. Choose from Host or Guest on the next screen. Select "Host" for the computer you will work from primarily. The "Guest" computer is your second computer that you want to copy files to or from one hard drive to the other.

7. Choose the port, serial or parallel, being used from the drop-down box on the next screen.

8. Choose the names of the people that are allowed to access the data. You will be given options such as Administrator, User Names and Microsoft support. Click "Next."

9. Click "Finish" on the next screen. You should now be able to click on Network Neighborhood or My Network Connections and access the data on the second computer.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also use special USB cables for connecting two computers, but these can be pricey. LAN connections should be the first choice, as serial and parallel connections are much slower.

References

• Serial Port and Modem Cables; Frank da Cruz; Columbia University
• Over Ethernet, how can I connect two computers without using a hub, switch, or existing network?, UITS Services and Support, Indiana University