How to Set Up a Direct Cable Crossover Ethernet Connection in Windows XP

A crossover cable connection is a direct computer-to-computer connection without the need for an intervening network device such as a router or switch. Setting this up on Windows XP computers is possible through the Network Setup Wizard built into the OS, enabling you to quickly and efficiently "talk" to the other network computer, allowing you to swap files and play games as needed.

Instructions

1. Plug one end of the Ethernet crossover cable into the network port on the back of one computer, and connect the other end to the network port on the back of the other.

2. Restart both computers.

3. Click "Start" on either computer, click "Control Panel" and select "Network Connections."

4. Click on the "Network Setup Wizard." Select the option for a direct PC-to-PC network connection and set the work group name to "Crossover."

5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 on the other computer.

6. Restart both computers to complete the connection.

References

• Microsoft: Network Setup Wizard