How to Setup a Network

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Requirements
1. a router which can be either wired or wireless. Wireless is recommended for homes to allow other computers easy access
2. a network adapter for the wired computer to setup the network
3. ethernet or wireless adapters for each computer that will use the network
4. a modem which is compatible with the router and usually uses ethernet

Installing the network adapter

Shutdown the computer and remove the power cable. Make sure all electricity from the computer is discharged by pressing the reset switch or power button. Unplug all peripherals and open the case. Locate an open PCI slot and insert the network adapter into the slot. Fasten the screw on the side of the card to hold it in place and put the case back together.

Connecting the cables

First, connect the cables of the modem to the router by plugging one end into the modem and the other end into the router where the router says WAN. Now, take another ethernet cable and connect one end to the computer and one end to the router where it says port 1, 2, 3, or 4. They should be right next to each other and separate from the WAN. Now plug in the modem and the router and turn on the computer.

Router setup

The computer should start detecting the new network adapter and install it. The CD that came with the network adapter may have to be inserted to install the drivers for the network adapter. Follow the new hardware installation wizard until it says the driver has been installed. A new icon in the system tray should appear (Windows XP) or new hardware appearing in the device manager under network adapters (Windows 9X). Now the network connection has to be setup for the wired connection.

Windows XP Network Connection
Go to My Network Places and run the Setup a home or small office network wizard. Click Next and then click Next again since the hardware has all been plugged in an turned on. Click the radio button that says This computer connects through a residential gateway or another computer on my network and Click Next. Enter a Computer Name which will be used to distinguish the computers. Each Computer Name must be unique. Click Next. Choose a Workgroup Name or use the default MSHOME and Click Next. Choose an option for printer and file sharing over the network. Turning this option on is recommended. Click Next. Check to make sure settings are correct and Click Next. Choose an option to finish the wizard. The network is now setup. Check to make sure by going to My Network Places and then View Network Connections. Right click the adapter and make sure it is receiving data.

Windows 9X Network Connection
Windows 9X configuration can vary depending on the router. The configuration consists of right clicking on My Network Places and going to Properties. Then installing Client for Microsoft Networks, TCP/IP, and File and Printer Sharing (optional). The configuration for TCP/IP usually can be automatic (DHCP) but can be configured manually.

Test the Connection
Make sure the connection is functioning by opening up a browser and trying to navigate to a url. Also try connecting to other computers on the network by going to My Network Places in Windows 9X or by going to My Network Places and View Workgroup Computers in Windows XP.