How to Use a Crossover Cable

Crossover cables provide a network connection between two similar devices, such as computer to computer or switch to router. It is important for this kind of connection that you have a cable designed for this application. A crossover cable looks like an Ethernet cable, and can easily be confused. The wires, however, are aligned differently in the crossover cable. No other special hardware is needed for using the crossover cable. A common application for this type of cable is connecting two computers for direct file transfer.

Instructions

1. Turn off both devices that you are connecting. If using a computer, be certain it is shut down fully, and not just in sleep mode.

2. Attach the crossover cable into one network device. The connection will be the same place you would make an Ethernet connection to the device.

3. Repeat the process of attaching the cable for the second device. It does not matter the order in which you connect the cable.

4. Turn on the network devices one at a time. Make sure the first device is up fully before turning on the second.

5. When connecting two computers, you should see the connection under "My Network Places".

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure when you connect two computers you have the network or workgroup set up on both before making the crossover cable connection.

• Be certain your cable is specifically labeled for a crossover connection.

References

• University of Tennessee, Martin