Connecting The Computers Together

The next step is to connect the computers together. In order to do so, you must first install the network card. Then you must install the hub or switch.

Installing The Network Card
Shut down the computer.

Unplug the power cord from the computer.

Open the case of the computer.

Remove the face plate from a vacant PCI slot on the back of the computer.

Install the network adapter into the slot. Be sure to push it in firmly. Usually you will be able to feel or hear the card snap into place when it has been installed correctly into the slot.

Use the screw from the bracket that you removed to screw the card fully into place.

Close the case.

Plug the power cord back in.

Installing The Swith or Hub
Place the Switch or Hub near a power outlet and in a location that ensures that all of the computers can access it easily.

Connect the network cards to the Switch or Hub by plugging one end of the cable into the Switch or Hub and one end of the cable into each of the computers.

Plug the Switch or Hub into a power outlet.

At this point, your network is almost complete, as far as the connections are concerned. Now you have to configure Windows to operate in a networked environment.

Introduction to Networking
Buying the Network Hardware
Connecting the Computers
Installing the Network Card(s)
Configuring the TCP/IP Protocol
Setting the Computer Names and the Workgroup Name
Sharing Folders
Sharing a Printer