Setting Up a Network


In this chapter, we're assuming that you are creating or adding to a network for a home or small office network, which in Microsoft's jargon is called a Workgroup network.

We assume that you've purchased and installed the necessary hardware components :

  • An Ethernet (wired) or wireless network adapter for each computer. (Most new desktop and laptop computers have an Ethernet adapter built onto the motherboard, so you may not have to purchase these.)

  • For a wired network, an Ethernet switch or hub, or a cable/DSL sharing router with a built-in switch, and CAT-5 cables to run from each computer to the switch, as shown in Figure 7.1.

    Figure 7.1. A basic wired Ethernet network, using CAT-5 cabling.

  • For a wireless network, a wireless router or access point. The router or access point will usually have Ethernet connections so that wired connections can be made as well, if desired, as shown in Figure 7.2.

    Figure 7.2. A wireless network with an "access point" or wireless Internet sharing router, and optional wired Ethernet connections.


If you need information on selecting and installing network hardware, refer to Upgrading and Repairing Networks or Upgrading and Repairing PCs , both by Que.

Note

If you have cable or DSL Internet service, we strongly recommend that you use a router (wired or wireless) to share the Internet connection with your network, rather than using Windows Internet Connection Sharing. These inexpensive ($10 to $40) devices simplify setup and provide increased security against hackers. Be sure to purchase a router that supports Universal Plug and Play, and if you want to be able to access your Windows XP Professional computer from the Internet using Remote Desktop, be sure the router supports Dynamic DNS (DDNS).


When the hardware has been connected, you're ready to configure the network.

If you are creating a wired network, skip ahead to the section "Configuring a Workgroup Network."

If you are creating a wireless network, install your access point or wireless router according to the manufacturer's instructions. Then proceed to the next section to set up wireless networking on your Windows XP computers.




Upgrading and Repairing Microsoft Windows
Upgrading and Repairing Microsoft Windows (2nd Edition)
ISBN: 0789736950
EAN: 2147483647
Year: 2005
Pages: 128

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