Networking with XP 2

[breslinc]

i have 2 computers at home and I want to network them together. Will I need a hub? router? or can i just connect the two witha cat 5 cable? I am using XP on both machines and both are in very close proximity to each other.


Thanks
Chris

 

[mikecx]

Breslinc,
That really depends on what you plan on donig with the computers. If you just want to share files between the two, a crossover cat5 cable will work ( one with the send and recieve flipped ). If you want to share internet you will either need a 2nd NIC for one computer or a hub/router/switch. The easiest way to share the internet is with a router. Cheapest is a hub because it is basically just a repeator. The switch comes in handy when you want to share files faster and reduce/eliminate collisions. There are many different ways to go about this and it really detemines which way / devices you should use. As a general guide I would go to

http://www.practicallynetworked.com

 

[breslinc]

Is this a regular CAT5 cable I can purchase down at the local office depot or office max? All I want to do is share files. No printing, interent or anything else. Just share files.


Thanks for the help
Chris

 

[mikecx]

This cable is a bit different. It's called a crossover cable but you should be able to get it at the same place. It's all you need for computer to computer. You will need to make sure to set your own ip's usually in the 192.168.1.x range and make sure both are on the same workgroup. If you end up getting a straight thru instead of a crossover you'll know because it wont work

 

[breslinc]

Ok, i'll give it a try, I plan to let Win XP do all the work, just running the wizard. i'll set them both up on the same workgroup. Thanks for the help and i'll let you know how it turns out.


Thanks alot.
Chris