purchase a different modem or add a router to your network.

Note: You can create a network of PCs without access to the internet. The internet is simply a common reason to network PCs together.

If you have multiple PCs and can share files between them, or all of the PCs can access the internet through a cable or DSL modem, then you do have a network. However, you will need to determine how your server PC (the PC running the hp media software) is assigned a network address.

hubs, routers and switches

When PCs are networked together, each PC is attached to a central “box” with 4, 8, 16 or more connections. This box is either a hub, a router, or a switch. They all operate in a similar way, with one important difference: a router will assign a network address dynamically, while a hub or switch will not.

network address: static or dynamic?

A PC (or any network device) is either assigned a network address manually (a static address), or

another device on the network (a DHCP server or router) assigns the address dynamically.

To determine your address settings under Windows XP:

1.Click on start

2.Click All Programs, then Accessories, then

Command Prompt

3.At the prompt, type ipconfig /all

4.Look for the line Dhcp Enabled (you may have to scroll back to see it)

To determine your address under Windows Me:

1.Click on start

2.Click Run...

3.At the prompt, type winipcfg and click Ok

4.Click the Details... button

5.Look for the line DHCP Server (if it has an address, DHCP is enabled)

If DHCP is enabled, you have a DHCP server on your network. See “wired with dynamic address” on page 37.

36hp digital media receiver