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    Networking on the fly

    Discussion in 'Networking and Wireless' started by Dissatisfied, Nov 11, 2005.

  1. Dissatisfied

    Dissatisfied Notebook Consultant

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    I have a completely newbe question.
    If there are two computers both running WinXP and I have a USB cable, is it possible to network by just connecting the two computers via the cable?
    Is there anything that I need to do/click?

    Thanks!
     
  2. nickspohn

    nickspohn Notebook Virtuoso NBR Reviewer

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    Nope, not possible. You need a Ethernet Cross Over Cable to do this job. There cheap and available at bestbuy and other retailers.

    BTW: You will need like an adapter to hook into the usb card anyware becasue both ends on the cable are different. But all around, the usb still wont work.
     
  3. Venombite

    Venombite Notebook Virtuoso

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    Actually, that's not 100% true. If you're using a standard USB cable, then no, you can't do it. But, if you have one of those USB transfer/network cables, you will be able to connect directly via USB and transfer your data. Below is a link to this type of product.

    http://www.homenethelp.com/web/review/pc-linq.asp

    This used to be an expensive way to transfer files, but these days the prices have dropped a lot. Below is a link to TigerDirect that I've seen that sells these types of products.

    http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/search.asp?keywords=usb+transfer+cable

    -Vb-
     
  4. nickspohn

    nickspohn Notebook Virtuoso NBR Reviewer

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    Wow, thanks VB. I never knew that, you learn something new everyday. :)
    I always thought of something out there like that, but i didnt look for him because he just ask for a standard usb cable.
     
  5. Dissatisfied

    Dissatisfied Notebook Consultant

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    Thanks to both of you!
    This is useful.
     
  6. nickspohn

    nickspohn Notebook Virtuoso NBR Reviewer

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    lol, yes, we are pretty useful. Check my guide if you have more questions
     
  7. Shampoo

    Shampoo Notebook Deity

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    My question is how do you connect the two computers?

    I did this on my friend's computer to transfer some files and I used an ethernet cable, transfer cable or not I don't know...I stole one from the school that was lying around :D
    It's baby blue as well haha

    I just used microsoft's create a home network wizard and then placed both computers in a new workgroup and then did it like that...is there another way?

    Cheers,
    Mike
     
  8. nickspohn

    nickspohn Notebook Virtuoso NBR Reviewer

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    Im believe that is the only way, if not, this way is the easiest.

    And yes, you used what is called a " Crossover Cable". :)