networking two computers

[abonilla]

I finally had a new computers built and I want to network it with my XP box, I have a wireless router that I set up for my Direct TV, I was told that I could ause a cross over cable or better yet use this router. I have rad a few articles in the Net but I wanted to make sure I will not be messing up things. Here is a photo of the router, do I need an ethernet cable, how do I write the groups that you need to set up the two computers?

 

[RealBeast]

Best to use your router with a patch cable (crossover not needed). If they have wireless adapters, they could connect using those.

 

[arges86]

I would avoid the crossover cable... more trouble than they are worth usually.

If your moving lots of data, plug both cables into the router w/ an Ethernet cable.
That way you get the most consistent speeds.
Its not hard to create your own LAN. Two or more devices plugged into the same router and your usually good to go.

You can even map the drive on the Windows XP computer, so it shows up as a Hard Drive on your new system for added convenience
http://www.wikihow.com/Map-a-Network-Drive