Connecting PCs in LAN

Local Area Network Connection 

This is what I learn t and explored during my project training in BARC..so very eager to share it with you all! So lets check out how to connect two PCS in LAN irrespective of whether its Windows XP or Windows7.Before proceeding lets see the requirements for connecting two PCs:

Requirements:

-Two PCs  with network card installed properly

- A minimum two-port Switch

-Two cross cables

Steps:
-Before using the PCs,first check for the Network adapters.

•  Right-Click on My Computer->Properties.System Properties window will be displayed.
•  Go to Hardware tab ->Device Manager->Network Adapters and check if the Fast Ethernet Controller is properly installed.Else you have to install the Windows Xp again.

- Setting the PC for connection: 

• For a Windows XP operating system, Control Panel->Network Connection
• Right –click on the Local Area Connection wizard and select Properties.
• In the General tab highlight the Internet Protocol[TCP/IP] and then click on Properties.
• Set the IP address  and sub-net-mask for each PC. 

Remember:IP address of each PC should be unique. 

For Windows 7 operating System 

1. Click the Start button to view the Start Menu and then choose the Control Panel option.

2. The Control Panel window opens up. Click All Control Panel Items.

3.Window shows All Control Panel Items.



4.Click Network and Sharing Center, window opens up with the basic network information and showing your active networks.

5.Right click on Local Area Connection and proceed as done in Windows XP.


Now your PC is ready for Connection.Connect one end of cable to the ports and other to the PC.Plug-in the Adapter and wait till the port light becomes stable.
To check if the PCs are connected use "ping" command in command prompt with the destination IP address as shown in figure.