Networking computers

There are two parts to it: first is setting up the hardware. Usually, you'll install a Network Interface Card in each computer. Under Windows95/98 or ME, the NIC will usually auto-detect and install the proper drivers. Then you'll just connect the two computers either with a cross-over cable or a hub and two regular Cat5 cables.

Setting up the software is the second part and exactly how you do that will depend on what operating system you have. You will probably be able to get very goodinstructions right here on the forum if you re-post with the information about what OS you're using.

paul

Hi
There are 2 type of Networking peer to peer and client/server.
Peer to peer is all could be clients and all could be server and less security and does not need network operating system (NOS).

client/server is where only servers and cleientsnot both and need network operating system (NOS) wich could run appliaction and database engine ect.
you are right you need the peer to peer network where you can connect 2 or more Pc at home or small office.There are allready made kit for home network.check internet or any computer magazine to find one for you or go shop around for one.(be sure to check it has installation instructions).
What you need.
1-Network kit to physically connect the PCs
2-Any operating system that support peer to peer network any win9x will do.
Now lets do the real work.
1-Follow instruction for installing the network kit.
2-Start->Setting->Control panle->Network-configuration tab then mark service and click add.Then click microsoft then choose "file andprint sharing for microsot network"
do this for all pcs.Boot your PC and you the resource which you to share and click property then click share that is it.Please
use windows help look for network.
To more info check these URLs.

http://compnetworking.about.com/compute/compnetworking/library/weekly/aa021801a.htm
http://www.networkcomputing.com/922/922colwillis.html
need any more info pls send me msg at
fenaikh@hotmail.com
Good luck
Mohamed.

Hi MsPurple.

Obviously you are looking for a simple solution so I'll make two assumptions. 1) You just want two computers to be networked with no care about expansion and 2) You really don't care about technical complexity in your options.

So with that in mind, the easiest and simplest route is to simply get this great home networking kit from 3Com, its called "HomeConnect". It includes a network card (you'll need two - one for each computer) and software called "HomeClick". It is the easiest solution to network. It literally steps you through. It is VERY user friendly. You'll need a crossover cable (you can buy these through many computer stores - even CompUSA or Microwarehouse). Total cost for this solution for BOTH cards, software, AND cabling AND sales tax - under $200.

If you need more help, just ask.

Take care.

Hi MsPurple.

Obviously you are looking for a simple solution so I'll make two assumptions. 1) You just want two computers to be networked with no care about expansion and 2) You really don't care about technical complexity in your options.

So with that in mind, the easiest and simplest route is to simply get this great home networking kit from 3Com, its called "HomeConnect". It includes a network card (you'll need two - one for each computer) and software called "HomeClick". It is the easiest solution to network. It literally steps you through. It is VERY user friendly. You'll need a crossover cable (you can buy these through many computer stores - even CompUSA or Microwarehouse). Total cost for this solution for BOTH cards, software, AND cabling AND sales tax - under $200.

If you need more help, just ask.

Take care.

Installing the system begins with insertion of the NIC cards in the PCs. Consult the hardware manual that came with your PC to identify the correct slot. Windows95 and NT will automatically detect the cards and prompt the user to provide the necessary drivers from the disk provided with the kit by the manufacturer. To set up a peer-to-peer network, you need to first configure your computers Networking setup in Control Panel to use the right protocols and services.
On a Windows 95 PC, with the NIC card installed, go into Network in Control Panel. If the NIC card is properly installed it should appear under "Installed Network Components".
Before you click OK, click on the Identification tab. Now, give your computer a name, this name will be used to identify the computer to the network. Next, choose a name for the whole network and enter it under "Workgroup".
Next, go to the Configuration tab and click Add to add the following components:
? Under Clients, add Client for Microsoft Networks and Client for Netware Networks. If for some reason the NIC card was not detected when you installed it, you can install it now by clicking Add and selecting Adapter. Under Protocol, add TCP/IP, IPX/SPX, and NetBEUI (all Microsoft).
The most efficient setup is to use NetBEUI locally and TCP/IP for external connections. When you add protocols, they will be added to each adapter you have installed--both the Network adapter and the dial-up adapter.
Under Services, add file and print sharing for Microsoft Networks.
In the Configuration panel, click on File and Print Sharing to enable file and print sharing over the network.
Follow this procedure for the other Win95 PCs on the network. To tell if you've been successful, clickon the Network Neighborhood Icon on the Win95 desktop, and see if both PCs appear under the workgroup. Go to Sharing Network Resource.