How to Set Up an Ethernet Switch With Windows 98

Ethernet switches allow many computers to share the same resources.

Ethernet switches are commonly referred to as routers and offer a way to connect multiple computers on your local network. These switches also allow you to share a single Internet connection between all of your local systems. Windows 98 fully supports the use of switches to connect devices over your local network.

Instructions

1. Plug your switch into the wall outlet to power the device.

2. Insert a Category 5 Ethernet cable into your Windows 98 computer's Ethernet adapter. Press firmly until it clicks.

3. Insert the opposite end of the Category 5 cable into the Ethernet switch. The port for which you are looking will typically be numerical; do not use the port labeled "WAN," as this is for your Internet connection.

4. Press the "Start" button on your Windows 98 computer and select "Run." Type "winipcfg" without quotes in the dialog that appears.

5. Select your Ethernet adapter from the drop-down dialog at the top of the IP Configuration window that opens. Click the "Renew" button to attain an Internet Protocol address from the switch.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are connecting the switch to the Internet, connect your modem to the WAN port of the switch.

References

• Columbia University: Configuring for Ethernet - Windows 98 and ME
• Microsoft: Set Up a Wired Network