Make a Hub-Free Network
I have two computers, each equipped with a network interface card. I frequently need to transfer large files between them. Can I set up a direct cable connection using the NICs?
Chan Chek Yuen, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
Windows' direct cable connection doesn't support NICs, but you can set up a network between your two computers--and you don't even need to buy a hub to do it.
What you do need is a crossover ethernet cable. In the standard ethernet cables that you use for connecting a computer to a hub or broadband modem, the wire on the left at one end is also on the left at the other end. In a crossover cable, the wires cross over (get it?), so that the wire on the left at one end is on the right at the other end. Crossover ethernet cables are readily available and cost as little as $8.
Once you've plugged the cable into both of your computers, all you need to do is set up a simple network: Right-click Network Neighborhood and select Properties. If you're using Windows Me, the icon is called My Network Places, and if you double-click it, you'll find a Home Networking Wizard that will walk you through the process of implementing a network.
On the Network dialog box's Configuration tab, select network protocols for the two computers: Click the Add button, double-click Protocols, and select Microsoft from the left column. I recommend that you install NetBEUI, IPX/SPX, and TCP/IP. Once you're back on the Configuration tab, select the primary network log-on as Client for Microsoft Windows. Then click File and Print Sharing and select whatever is appropriate: The first option lets you share files, and the second lets you share printers. Be aware, however, that enabling file sharing can compromise your system's security.
On the Identification tab, make sure that each computer has a unique name but that both are in the same workgroup. Don't use spaces in either of these fields. Click OK, and reboot your system when you're prompted to do so.
To make a folder available to the other computer, right-click it in Windows Explorer and select Sharing. Make the appropriate selections and click OK.
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