If we talk about computer networks, there are two kinds of them: global (now this term understand the Internet) and local.The main difference - a number of connected computers.But everything else - it's his investigation.That is quite obvious that the global network covers a large area, its topology (structure) involves the use of "nodes" - the special server computers that perform the processing of data packets sent and so on. But in local connection involved a relatively small number of devices.Yes, and routing is very simple.It may seem that the LAN connection - it is the prerogative of small distances.In fact, this is misleading: the link between the spacecraft and the computer center of the ground is just the local, not global.
LAN connection allows computers to exchange information at speeds much higher than the average for the Internet.Sometimes this is a decisive factor in the choice of method of connecting a plurality of computing devices.LAN connection, as a rule, does not require large financial investments.At the hardware level required network cards and connecting their environment - cable (Ethernet) or radio (Wi-Fi).If you want to include in the network more than two devices, you need a special device (switch or hub).Well, the software component, namely LAN connection xp (implied popular operating system from Microsoft), we now consider.
When two network cards will be physically connected to the computers, make sure that the LAN connection implemented.In Windows XP, it needs to follow the path of "Start - Control Panel - Network Connections" (also here can be accessed via a link in Explorer "My Computer") and ensure that the LAN connection is active (read "Connected").If this condition is not satisfied, it is necessary to check the condition of the cable and install the current drivers for the network card.Incidentally, occasionally difficulties arise due to damaged cards that can not be defined other than by visual inspection of the reverse side of the system unit included (in "setevushke" lights green LED).Note that a hardware failure - one of the reasons due to which users are complaining that the missing LAN connection.
are now ready to configure.Call the local properties of the desired connection, and in the "General" tab, select "Protocol".In this case, the automatic settings - not the best choice, so swap the "tick" in manual mode.Line «IP-address" is necessary to register 192.168.0.h (the latter figure - any of the range 1-255).Standard mask - 255.255.255.0.
Then select "Properties" links "Computer" menu button "Start".Follow the tab "Name."Here, according to the rules (there is a hint) prescribes the workgroup name, and the computer itself.It is necessary to click "Apply".
On another computer, perform the same actions.Two differences: the last digit of IP-address and the name must be different (but the group - the same).We wait until the network is initialized, and "looking for" a computer in a network environment.
