Setting up home network

[barlav]

Hi, I have 2 pc's both with NIC's. One's Windows XP Pro and the other is W2K Pro. I'm new to networking and I'm trying to set up the 2 on a small home network and I'm not quite sure how to do it. Can anyone get me started or point me in the direction of some good info on this topic? Can I do it with what I have? Or do I need some other software/hardware to make it happen. My ultimate goal is to just be able play unreal with my wife at home (It's taken me forever to talk her into playing so I'm hoping I can get this done before she changes her mind!!! 🙂 ). Thanks for any help that can be provided.

 

[Hoober]

Try here

Lot of good info on that site. Also try the networking FAQ here on Anand... it will answer all of your basic questions about home networking. A search of the networking forum should also turn up a plethera of information.

 

[JackMDS]

Option 1: Direct connects, cheap and dirty for two computers.

Log here, and look at the 4th post:

Direct Connect.


Option2: Just simple Network.

Log here for a simple description of Network Installation.

The joy of Windows Networking.


Option 3: Network with Internet Sharing.

Read the content of the following links:

Basic Options for Internet Connection Sharing

<a target=new class=ftalternatingbarlinklarge href="http://www.
anandtech.com/guides/viewfaq.html?i=48">Hubs, routers, switches, DSL, LANs, WANs...?</a>


When you get to the actual Settings, you can use the info in the following links:

Windows 2000 Network Card Installation

Windows 2000 / XP TCP/IP protocol.

Windows 2000 Network Sharing.

Windows XP Professional .

Windows XP Professional Ed. Sharing Disks /Folders

 

[barlav]

Thanks a ton!!! for both responses. I am sure they both will help me get setup. I'm looking into them now. Thanks again! 🙂

 

[CPA]

JackMDS,

Thanks for the great links, I plan on using them tonight when setting up my first home network.