I have a labtop and a desktop in my same room, and I was wondering if I could network the computers without having to use a hub or router. Could I just use a ethernet cable to network them, and how would I do it? Both of the computers are running Windows 2000, and have 10/100 Ethernet Cards.
Thanks so much!

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--Daniel--
EMusicTalk.com

Sure thing....All you need is a cross over cable. Which is pretty simple when you think about it.

It is just making the send/receive on the opposite ends of the RJ-45 connector.

If you are not too good with the crimpers, I suggest buying a pre-fab cable as it can get a little confusing with all of the pairs.

Good Luck--

-Massy

some sites that might help with making your own cross over cables

http://www.lfchosting.com/helmig/j_helmig/thisted.htm (2/3 down the page)

http://www.whcs.com.au/services/network/xover.htm

you only need some cat5 cable, rj45 connectors and a pair of crimpers

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my choice is what I choose to do
and if I'm causing no harm
it shouldn't bother you
Ben Harper

Thanks so much! One more question. What do I do in Windows 2000 to show that there is a network? Will it automaticlly work, or do I need to add something, customize, whatever?
And one last thing. I was wondering where I could find these things for purchase. I was looking for about 20 minutes, and I couldn't find them!


Thanks!

__________________
--Daniel--
EMusicTalk.com

You'll either need a crossover cable, or the tools to build yourself one.
Crossover cables are just like regular cables, except they have switched pins inside of them. You can get everything you need from Radio Shack - The 8-conductor wire, a set of RJ-45 crimpers, and some RJ-45 plug ends.
When you make the cable, you must swap pins 1/3 and 2/6. Crimp the ends, and you should be good.
Also, it's worth noting that some computer stores sell crossover adapters. They're just RJ-45 couplers that have the pins switched internally.

Added:
I didn't even see everyone else's replies when I posted! Weird! Sorry about that, guys, and thanks for your help!

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"And knowing is half the battle!"

I know CompUSA and Circuit City sell crossover cables. Belkin manufactures them - I have bought one in the past. You should also be able to find one on the website.

Are you networking just Windows 2000/NT or is it one with 2000 and one with 9X? If the second is the case, make sure you have NetBEUI installed on both machines. It's a protocol just like TCP/IP that aids connectivity in Windows Workgroups Networking. You'll pull out your hair if you don't have NetBEUI installed. If you have networking equipment in Windows 2000 and a link established (Meaning an ethernet cable with a piece of equipment on the other end), then Win2K usually puts a new connection icon in the tray to let you know. You can check your Local Area Connection in Start->Settings->Dial-up and Network Connections. You can make a new Local Area Connection there, and specify which network protocols you want to use. Forget about IPX/SPX unless you play Diablo I. Just TCP/IP and NetBEUI.

__________________
"And knowing is half the battle!"