Chapter 16 -- Making Connections

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Chapter 16

Microsoft Windows 2000 can help reduce the trials and complexity of making network connections to places near and far. Using networking, you can access files, folders, printers, and other devices that are connected to other computers. And you can let other people access the shared files, folders, printers, and other devices on your computer. With Windows 2000, you can make the following types of network connections:

• Connect to a private network (in most cases, a local area network, or LAN) using a network adapter.
• Connect to a private network with a dial-up connection using a modem or an ISDN adapter. Using a dial-up connection (and a suitably equipped dial-up server at your other location), you can stay current with vital data stored at the office.
• Connect to the Internet with a dial-up connection or through your local area network.
• Use a virtual private network connection to connect to your private network using your Internet connection.
• Connect two computers via serial or parallel cables or by an infrared link.
• Allow other users to connect to your computer via dial-up connection, virtual private network connection, or direct connection.