Sep 13

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Networking has a very wide definition and in fact even includes the internet.  This article is going to cover home and small business networking.

Home and small business networks involves using resources from another computer so you don’t need to have a separate devices to do a job.  A good example (and the widest use so far) is printers.  All operating systems let you share and network printers.

What do you need?

What you need will depend on if you already have a router.  The only time you must have a router is if you plan to use the internet.  The main requirements are:

  • You must have a network card installed in your computer
  • You need to have a minimum of Cat5 network cable.  Cat5e is better.  Cat 6 is not necessary in most cases
  • If you only have two computers to network and you don’t have the Internet you can use a crossover cable. No hub, switch or router  is needed in that case.
  • If you have the internet you have to have a Modem to get the Internet.  However you can not share the Internet unless you attach a router to the Modem.  AT&T  and other Companies sell Wireless routers that incorporate the Modem, Router and switch capabilities.
  • If the Router does not have ports  to plug in more computers you will need to have a Switch also. Most current router have several ports.
  • You will need to be sure the internet is working first.  Get the Router hooked up and working on the main computer.
  • Now connect the second computer to the router or switch port.
  • Verify that you can get the Internet.  If not, work with your service provider or a technician to get it working.
  • You now need to share files on both computers to make this work.
  • Right click the start button (In XP) and click on explorer.
  • Right click the directory or file you need to share in both computers.
  • Follow prompts accordingly.
  • Unfortunately programs or files will not work without mapping them.
  • After setting up the sharing you need to click the Start button again.
  • Find “My Computer” and right click it.
  • Now select “Map Network Drive”
  • Here is were you are pretty much on your own.  Pick a letter.  Normally this can not be A,B,C,D or E.  Be sure the drive letter you pick is not already used. Click on “My Computer” to see what drive letters are already used.
  • Now click on Browse and select the folder of file you need. Follow the prompts.

You should now be able to access the file or program you selected.

If you’re using a wireless router it gets hooked up the same way.  The difference is that the computer you want to be wireless must have a wireless card installed.  All current laptops are sold with the card already installed.  You will need to know the access code to the router  in order to use the internet and other network files and resources. If you don’t know it or can’t figure it out call you service provider.

This has been a very quick overview.  There are entire books written about this subject.  In fact there are degree programs that cover this as well.

If you do have problems please respond to comments on the top of this blog.

Use Google if necessary.

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