How to Create a Client Server Network on Windows XP

Creating a client server network on your Windows XP computer enables you to designate one computer as the server, allowing it to host all files and software applications run by the client computers, sharing them through the file-sharing settings in the operating system. Accomplish this with the network tools in Windows XP, a process that takes roughly 15 to 20 minutes to complete.

Things You'll Need

• Router
• Ethernet cables

Instructions

1. Plug an Ethernet cable into the network port of each network computer.

2. Plug the other end into the ports on the back of the router.

3. Open "Start" on the server computer. Click "Control Panel" and select "Network Connections." Double-click "Network Setup Wizard."

4. Input the requested details about your network. Set the Workgroup name to "SERVERNET" and click "On" for file sharing.

5. Right-click "Start," click "Explore," right-click the folders you wish to share on your server computer, select "Sharing" and click "Share this folder."

6. Repeat Steps 4 and 5 on the other computers on the network. Restart all computers when finished to complete the network.

References

• Microsoft: Network Setup Wizard