Datasheet

Book VII
Chapter 1
Setting Up a Peer-
to-Peer Network
Configuring Your Host Computer
455
A central location helps to keep cable lengths short, and most of the
time, you won’t need access to the hub unless you experience a problem
with the network. Most hubs have small LEDs on the front of the case
that indicate network activity, and it can be comforting to glance across
at them to see that the network is still running.
5. Connect one end of the cable to the NIC and connect the other end of
the cable to the hub, starting with the first connection.
Do this for each computer on the network. Both ends of the cable are
identical, so it doesn’t matter which end you connect to the computer or
the hub.
6. Turn on the hub and all connected computers.
You’ll see a light or LED on the hub for each connected computer.
That’s it. Now you’re ready to configure your network software.
Honestly, just between you, me, and the piano, connecting the hardware isn’t
that tough. I’m with you. Networking computer hardware just ain’t that tough
any more.
Configuring Your Host Computer
After you connect all your hardware, you need to give Windows XP some
information about the network that you’ve just set up. Before you start,
though, you need to decide which of the computers on your network will
host Internet Connection Sharing (ICS). With ICS turned on, all the computers
on the network can access the Internet even though they don’t have direct
connections. The host computer must meet the following requirements:
✦ Run Windows XP
✦ Be turned on at all times so that the other computers on the network
can access the Internet
If one of your networked computers has an existing DSL hookup or a cable
modem, that computer is an excellent choice to be the ICS host.
To configure your network, be sure that you’re logged on as Computer
Administrator and then, at the computer that will host ICS, follow these
steps:
1. Choose Start➪All Programs➪Accessories➪Communications➪Network
Setup Wizard to start the Network Setup Wizard.
The Welcome screen appears.
2. Click Next.
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