Setting Up and Using Networks 45
7
Setting Up and Using Networks
Setting up a computer network provides connectivity between your computer and the Internet,
another computer, or a network. For example, with a network set up in a home or small office you
can print to a shared printer, access drives and files on another computer, browse other networks, or
access the Internet. You can set up a local area network (LAN) using a network or broadband modem
cable or set up a wireless LAN (WLAN).
The Microsoft® Windows® XP and Microsoft Windows Vista® operating systems provide wizards
to help guide you through the process of networking computers. For more information about
Networking, see the Windows Help and Support Center (see "Windows Help and Support Center"
on page 13).

Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable

Before you connect your computer to a network, the computer must have a network adapter
installed and a network cable connected to it.
1
Connect the network cable to the network adapter connector on the back of your computer.
NOTE: Insert the cable connector until it clicks into place, and then gently pull the cable to ensure that it
is securely attached.
2
Connect the other end of the network cable to a network connection device or a network wall
connector.
NOTE: Do not use a network cable with a telephone wall connector.