I am buying a second computer for my office. If I want the two computers to be linked so that the operators of both computers can see up to date information on programs such as Quickbooks and also access other files created on either computer, I gather it's called setting up a network?

Can someone tell me what's involved and what hardware I need to purchase to do this? I am aware that I need a broadband connection and a particular modem if both operators want to be on the internet at once, but I'm not sure what else is involved such as linking the two to one printer. Help!

Re: Linking two computers

Hi Tanya

You don't need much. Both units require a network card, and you will need a crossover cable to connect them. This is a specially wired cable that avoids the need for a network hub. Any adsl modem will do the job, as you can connect it to one of the pc's either via a second network card or a usb connection, then use Windows inbuilt internet connection sharing facilities to share the connection between both machines. A printer connected to either machine can also be easily shared.

If you want to go up a step, you can obtain a multiport adsl modem/router. These units act both as an internet distribution point and as a network hub, permitting the connection of more than two pc's. In this case, you would use standard network cables, not crossover cables.

Examine your available options, and post back with any questions.

Chris B

Re: Linking two computers

Well im in the same boat. One has DSL, ran cable to other one, did what company said to do but 2nd computer woud not work. Called dell they could not help. Both computers are dell with xp. Both are the same. Dell says its my dsl 2wire bad. The dsl company says its the dell.

Re: Linking two computers

Did you use a crossover cable? A neat trick is to buy a crossover plug and have a straight through cable. In general straight through cables are BLUE crossover are RED. This convention is not as common now as it used to be.

Re: Linking two computers

If you have to link two computers, both the computers should have physical network adapters [NICs] and you have to buy a crossover cable to connect them.

After you have done that, to check that they are properly connected look for the light on the NIC which is supposed to be on.

Then force IP 192.168.0.1 subnet 255.255.255.0 in one PC and then force 192.168.0.2 in the other PC.

Then try pinging one IP with the other.

If everything goes well you will get Ping Reply.

Best of Luck and cheers,

Kaushik