How to Create a Media Network Through Ethernet Cabling

You can create a media network in Windows using Ethernet cabling.

All PC computers running the Windows Vista or 7 operating system include the Windows Media Player application, which is capable of playing audio and video files. Within Windows Media Player, you can create a media network for sharing music and movies with nearby computers. To create a wired media network, all computers must be connected to a central switch or router with Ethernet cables.

Things You'll Need

• PC computer running Windows Vista or 7
• Network router or switch
• Ethernet cables

Instructions

1. Make sure your network router or switch is connected to your cable or DSL modem and is receiving an active Internet signal.

2. Connect all computers to the ports on your network router or switch using Ethernet cables.

3. Launch the Windows Media Player application on the computer you want to use to host the media network.

4. Click on the arrow icon underneath the "Library" tab and select the "Media Sharing" option.

5. Check the box next to "Share my media."

6. Click on "Apply" next to each of the devices and computers that you want to add to the media network.

7. Click "OK" to save the settings and finish creating the media network.

References

• Windows Support: Share your media in Windows Media Player with other people or devices