Establishing your Ethernet network connection
Naming the computers and the workgroup
Important
You must give each computer on the network a unique Computer Name and the same Workgroup Name.
Make sure that you have set up your router (wired network) or access point (wireless network). If you are setting up a wired network, make sure that you have connected the network cabling.
Configuring the TCP/IP protocol
A networking protocol is a language computers use to talk to each other. One of several available protocols must be set up on each computer you plan to use on your network. We recommend you use the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), which is widely accepted and compatible for local area networks (LANs), as well as for Internet communications.
When networking is set up in Windows, TCP/IP is automatically installed as the default protocol.
Using a DHCP server
In order to use the TCP/IP protocol on a computer with a router or access point router, the protocol must be set to “Obtain an IP address from a DHCP server.” This is typically preset when you receive your computer.
Configuring your router
After you have named your computers and set up TCP/IP on them, you can configure your router using your Web browser. For instructions, see your router’s documentation.
Testing your network
Now that your home network is set up, log onto one of your computers and access a favorite Internet Web site.
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