Networking 2 computers

[Cats2001!]

I must say, I'm a novice when it comes to computer networking (even though I am studying CISCO!)

If I want to connect just 2 computers together to share information and perhaps play games, what do I need?

What cable(s) do I need?
Do I need a Hub?
If so, what is a Hub, how to you configure it and what does it look like?
Is it just a case of 'plug and play'?
Do I need to install software on both computers or just one and then transfer it over?
Do I have to create and IP addresses?
Do I need a Server or anything?

Any feedback on the issue will be GREATLY appreciated.

 

[mantis]

I work for a computer networking company, so know a little bit, unfortunately my boss is out, so I can't ask him at the moment.
But yes will need a hub, they come in different sizes and range and cost from about $150 for a 4 port hub which is probably all you would need & the software to configure it comes with the hub. I am pretty sure you will need cat 5 utp cables.
Not sure if you have to install software on both machines, or about the ip addresses, also not sure if you need a server.
If you want to wait for a day. I will ask my boss tomorrow morning.
What systems are your PC's & what mhz are they & how big is your HDD & how much ram?

 

[Dave]

Originally posted by Cats2001!
I must say, I'm a novice when it comes to computer networking (even though I am studying CISCO!)

If I want to connect just 2 computers together to share information and perhaps play games, what do I need?

What cable(s) do I need?

A Null modem cable will do fine. If both pc's have a nic (network card) then you'll need a cable compatable with it, either coax or RJ45 (ie 10baseT).

Do I need a Hub?

Only if you have network cards and only then if they are RJ45 and you don't have a cross over cable (a special cable for connecting 2 computers without a hub). Got that?

If so, what is a Hub, how to you configure it and what does it look like?

You're studying Cisco? o-kaaay. A hub is a network device that allows two or more computers with a compatable network protocal loaded to communicate with each other. They come in all shapes and sizes from tiny little 4 port hubs that run without a power supply to big load honking units that makes lots o' noise.

You don't need to configure them in most cases.

Is it just a case of 'plug and play'?

The hub yes, the computers no.

Do I need to install software on both computers or just one and then transfer it over?

Both computers need to be set up with the same network protocol, be it netbios/netbeui, TCP/IP whatever

Do I have to create and IP addresses?

If you're using TCP/IP yes, otherwise no.

Do I need a Server or anything?

No. and yes

Any feedback on the issue will be GREATLY appreciated.

S'okay.

 

[Cats2001!]

Thank you very much for your feedback. Your answers have actualy helped my understand Cisco a little bit better as well! I know I'm studying it, but let me be dammed - I've never seen a hub in my life!! Just routers!

But i do know a bit about routers. Correct me if I'm wrong, but they are for joining a number of individual networks (LANS) together to form a WAN. You use hyperterminal to configure them and get your IP addresses.

But in my case of just making a small connection at home, a router is irrelevant, hey?

 

[Cats2001!]

Oh - and how do you choose/set up the protocol you are going to use?