You can use a router to set up a home network.
You can use a router to connect two computers and create a network for your home. A network allows two computers to share files, folders, printers and Internet connection. Certain software can also be shared between computers. You can purchase a router online or from any computer retail store. This router can be wired or wireless, depending on the type of network you would like to set up. Both computers will also need to have a network card to make the network connection. Network cards are usually installed on desktop computers by default, but can also be purchased at a computer retail store if you need to install one.
Instructions
1. Plug the router into a power outlet in a location that is central to your computer network. If you will be using a high-speed Internet modem for an Internet connection, you should place your router near to your modem.
2. Locate the numbered network jacks on the back of the router. These jacks are used to connect the computers to the router. You may also see a jack labeled "Internet." This should only be used by the modem.
3. Connect one end of a network cable to the "Internet" jack in the back of the router and the other end to the network jack on the back of your high-speed Internet modem. This will provide an Internet connection for your network.
4. Connect one end of a network cable to one of the numbered jacks on the back of the router.
5. Connect the other end of the network cable to one of the computers in your network.
6. Insert and run the router software CD in your computer if it is required for the router's initial setup. This will configure your router for a first-time run.
7. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the router setup. This may be a different process for different brands of routers. Also, not every router will require a setup process.
8. Connect the end of the second network cable to a second numbered jack on the back of the router.
9. Connect the other end of the network cable to your second computer.
Tags: network cable, back router, Internet connection, jack back, other network