Installing Network Interface Cards

In order for a computer to function in a network, it has to have two items: hardware and networking software. The hardware needed is, of course, a network interface card (NIC). NICs are developed and configured to function on specific types of networks, such as Ethernet, Token Ring, and even home/office networks such as HomePNA. The NIC handles data flow and communication over the network cable and functions as your computer’s interface to the network. Most NICs are installed in internal slots, such as PCI, but there are also external NIC options that can connect to a USB port.

Installing NICs in Windows XP is just like installing any other type of hardware. You simply insert the NIC, or in the case of an external NIC, attach it to the USB port. NICs sold today follow the same plug and play specification, and Windows XP can automatically detect new NICs that are installed on the computer. When the NIC is installed, Windows XP automatically binds the NIC to TCP/IP with DHCP selected by default. You should not need to reboot the computer for any of this to take place. You can install multiple NICs that can be used to connect to different network segments, or even different networks if necessary, and you can adjust and completely change the protocols and services that are bound to the NIC.

Note 

If you are installing an internal NIC, make sure you turn the power off on the computer!

If you have problems installing a plug and play NIC, you can use the Add Hardware Wizard to help you, just as you would for any hardware device. Make sure you are using a driver that is compatible with Windows XP (as well as a NIC that is compatible with Windows XP). As with any device, you can use Device Manager to manage the NIC and troubleshoot it, as well as update its driver when necessary. See Chapter 4 to learn more about managing hardware in Windows XP.

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Tech Talk: PCMCIA

PCMCIA, or Personal Computer Memory Card International Association, defines a bus architecture for mobile or laptop computers. PCMCIA cards, which are most often just called PC cards, are used with laptop computers and replace the typical PCI and ISA buses. PC cards are about the about the size of a credit card and are easily inserted into PCMCIA slots on laptop computers. The installation routines and functionality of these cards are the same as the NICs you would use in a desktop system, and you can find PC cards for all types of network architectures, such as Ethernet, Token Ring, wireless networks, and even HomePNA.

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A+ Technician's on the Job Guide to Windows XP
A+ Technician's on the Job Guide to Windows XP
ISBN: 72226900
EAN: N/A
Year: 2003
Pages: 164

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