Easy Directions for Hooking Up a Network With 2 or More Computers

Hooking up a network with two or more computers may seem like an overwhelming task, but hardware vendors and Microsoft have simplified networking technologies to facilitate easier installation and set-up. In order to accomplish this task, you will need to inventory your network equipment, purchase needed hardware, set up and install a router, and hook up your computers to the router. You can choose to set up a wired network, a wireless network or a hybrid network.

Gather Materials

Determine what items you need to purchase in order to hook up a network with two or more computers. Each computer requires either a Network Interface Card (NIC) or a wireless card. (Purchase external cards to make installation easiest.) Most recent laptops feature an embedded wireless antenna. If you are unsure of the hardware capabilities of your computer, open the "Device Manager" via the Control Panel, then expand the "Network Adapters" category. Acquire a router that preferably supports both wired and wireless connections. In order to connect the NIC to the router, you will need RJ-45 connector cables for each wired computer. You should be able to acquire all of these items from a computer shop or electronics store.

Install Cards

If you've discovered that some of your computers do not have NICs or wireless adapters, install the cards. You will need a small Phillips screwdriver to install an internal card. Always power down a computer, remove all cables and devices from the computer, and wear an anti-static wrist bracelet if opening a computer case. Work in a well-lit area. Open the case, identify an available, compatible slot, and insert the NIC. Secure the card by screwing in the slot cover screw, then replace the card, the side panel, and all cables and devices. Boot the computer, and Windows should detect the new installation. Insert the driver disk, if Windows prompts you to do so. External cards usually interface with the computer via an available USB port. Insert the card, then allow Windows to detect new hardware. Insert the driver disk, if Windows prompts you to do so.

Setting Up Your Router

Connect the router to one of your wired computers, if available. Follow the router's instruction manual to set up your network. Implement security measures on your router, and note all security keys. Change the name of your SSID, and always change the router administrator's password from the default name. For now, allow computers to see your SSID. Please note that all wired computers must be plugged in directly to the router, so choose a location for your router that is convenient to your desktop computers.

Hooking Up Your Computers to the Router

Each computer on your network must share the same "workgroup" name. To change the name of your workgroup, go to "System" via the Control Panel, then click "Change Settings" in the computer name, domain name, and workgroup settings section (Windows Vista/7) or by clicking the Computer Name tab (Windows XP). Enter the same name on all computers. Restart your computers. Set up your wired computers first by connecting each computer to the router via RJ-45 connector cables. Link your wireless computers to the network by enabling your wireless antenna. Windows should automatically detect your wireless network. Choose "Connect" for your network, then select and input any required security keys or codes that you established when setting up your router.