How to Set Up an Ethernet Network in Windows XP and Vista

Though XP and Vista are both two different versions of the same Windows operating system, certain tasks are performed differently on computers running each. A prime example of this is the process of setting up an Ethernet network. Whereas Windows XP featured a folder called "Network Connections" in its Control Panel, in Windows Vista this has been replaced with the "Network and Sharing Center." The differences do not stop there.

Instructions

Windows XP

1. Click "Start."

2. Click "Settings."

3. Click "Control Panel."

4. Open "Network Connections."

5. Click "Create a New Network Connection." Click the "Next" button in the "New Connection Wizard." Select the type of Ethernet network you're trying to set up (either an Internet network or a local area network) and click "Finish" to complete the process of setting up your Ethernet network in Windows XP.

Windows Vista

1. Click "Start."

2. Click "Control Panel."

3. Open "Network and Sharing Center."

4. Click "Connect to a Network."

5. Click the icon for the Ethernet network you want to connect to and click "Connect." Your Windows Vista computer will now be set up and connected to your Ethernet network.

References

• PracticallyNetworked: Windows XP Network Connection Troubleshooting
• Microsoft: Network and Sharing Center