Networking 2 laptops

cheghead

I have 2 laptops I want to use on a 'wired network'. Both have RJ45 connectors. Can any1 confirm all I need is a cross-over cable or do I need a hub/switch also? Any help appreciated!

andyrew_2

You need to be more specific on what type of network you are trying to get.

If you are just wanting to link the 2 laptops together and swap files then you only need a network card for each Laptop (which it sounds like you do) and a cross over cable. If you need cables go to https://www.ardelectronics.com and have a look.

If you are wanting to set up a small home office network then you will need a switch added to the above and standard patch cables (not crossover). This will allow you to have one printer connected to a PC and the other will print thro' that PC. If you want a cheap switcher I bought mine from https://www.screwfix.co.uk (yes Screwfix) they do a good little package.

If you want to take it further and have broadband connected the you will need an ADSL Router. This will allow you to surf the net from any PC connected to the router as well as any of the previous things described. If you want the best price on ADSL Routers try https://www.dealtime.co.uk, I bought a Netgear with PCMIA card but again best price through dealtime.

I have done all 3 slowly upgrading to finally having 4 PC's linked across both a hard wire and wireless network all with internet and printer access and even an x-box live connected.

If you just want to file share then the first is the simplest but it depends what you want to do.

I hope I haven't confused you too much!!

cash99

A crossover cable is all you need and Microsoft peer to peer networking software.

If you only have two computers to connect a hub is not required.

cheghead

You need to be more specific on what type of network you are trying to get.


Will also want to use on ADSL broadband and network the printer on one machine.

mk-donald

If you do want to do the simple crossover RJ45 network cable route - get on over to Dell's online store by Monday 11/4 and pick up a bargain delivered to your door - eg I picked up a Belkin - Crossover cable - RJ-45 (M) - RJ-45 (M) - 5 m - UTP ( CAT 5e ) -
yellow - Item No: IM-0860450 for £1.30+VAT, ie £1.53 DELIVERED!!!! Found details of Dell's this weekend only offer on accessories/software in the BuyItNow part of this board - they normally charge £7+ more. Otherwise can pick up crossover cables at various online stores for anywhere from £1-£3 BUT you nearly always get stung with carriage of £3-£7 extra which doesn't work for a simple one item order.

deepakgeorge

Crossover cable is enough for Connecting two laptops instead of a hub/ switch. You can share your files / internet connection.
If you need to share the internet connection either you should have two Ethernet ports or the internet connection should come through USB.

This is the guide which i used to do my first networking.It really helps ..

If your operating system is XP
try this.http://www.annoyances.org/exec/show/ics_xp

If your OS is Win 2K..try this.

http://www.annoyances.org/exec/show/ics_2000