Do you have more than one computer?

Do you constantly need files from your old computer?
Do you have more than one printer and would like to use both at the same time?
Would you like to back-up your files on the other computer for safety?
Want to play your favorite game on the network with your friends?

Try an inexpensive network! I recommend the Linksys network with switched hub. It is inexpensive at $69 to $99 depending on where you purchase it. You can choose between 10 megabit (10BaseT) and 100-megabit (100BaseT), networks in this price range. I recommend you get the faster 100-megabit network, as it will give you more value for your money. A switched network hub (10/100) allows a slower NIC (Network Interface Card) to be connected without slowing other network devices. This also allows a network router (such as an ADSL modem or a printer) to be connected, even though they are 10 megabit, and not slow your file transfers.

You should print these instructions for ease of use

Installing it will require you to open both computer cases and insert the card into an open PCI (Peripheral Connect Interface) slot. For most computers this will only require a Phillips head screwdriver. Some computers come with a built in NIC (Network Interface Card); if yours does you can probably use it instead. If both computers have network cards buy just a network hub and cables. You will then install the drivers for the network from the provided CD-ROM(s). You must find a place to plug in and keep the network hub. You then run the category 5 cables with RJ45 connectors from the hub to each computer.

Now for the fun part (yeah right!) The CD-ROM will have installed the needed software for you. Now you must set up the net to support peer to peer use. Right click the network neighborhood icon. A drop down box will appear, Click on properties. The network properties window will open (you can also access this window from control panel). At the top of the network window you click on the identification tab. In here give this computer a name; it will need to be different on the other computer. You will also need to check the workgroup name; this name must be the same on both computers. Now at the top of the network window click the Access Control tab. Make sure the “share level access” has a mark in the bullet. Now at the top click the configuration tab. Now click on the “file and printer sharing” button; now go to the scroll window at the bottom and click the down arrow, highlight the “windows logon” and then close the window. You will be asked if you want to restart your computer click yes. Just a couple of more steps I promise! When the computer has rebooted you will be asked for a password leave it blank and click the “OK” button. Now double click on the My Computer icon on the desktop. Now right click on drive “C” and look for the “sharing” and click it you will click on “shared as” and under access click “full”. Don’t add a password unless you really want one. Do this step on each drive you want to share. You must now repeat these steps on the other computer.