TECHNICAL SUPPORT
Information: Using Ethernet to Set Up a Home Network
► Summary:
This article contains information about using Ethernet to set up a home network.
► Content
Adapters
Each computer that will be on your home network needs a network adapter. There are four types of
Ethernet adapters:
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Integrated Ethernet adapters are built in to the motherboard of your computer. No installation
is required, but this option is only available when you purchase your PC. Check the
documentation that came with your PC to see if it has an Ethernet port.
·
PCI network interface cards (NICs) are installed inside your computer. PCI NICs allow for faster
communication than the other types of network adapters, but you have to open your computer
to install one. In addition, they cannot be used with laptops.
·
USB Ethernet adapters are easy to install, but they are slower than PCI NICs because they have
to communicate with the computer through a USB port. USB Ethernet adapters can be used
with desktop or laptop computers.
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PC Card Ethernet adapters can be installed in the PCMCIA slot on a laptop. They are easy to
install, but you can only have one PCMCIA device on a laptop at a time.
Note:
Each operating system and network adapter has its own installation procedure, including the
installation of the drivers. Follow the directions that came with your network adapter to install
the drivers.
Cables
Connections between computers on a network are made with Ethernet cables. These cables have ends
on them called RJ-45 connectors. Ethernet networks require CAT5, CAT5e, or CAT6 cables. You can
purchase bulk Ethernet cable if you have special tools to put the RJ-45 connectors on the cables
yourself. You will need an Ethernet cable for each of your computers, plus one to connect the cable
modem to the hub or router.
Hubs and Routers
When two or more computers are networked, a hub or router is needed. If you use a hub to connect
your computers to your cable modem, you will need to order Multiple Computer Access.
Once you have installed the network adapters on the computers that will be on your home network,
you can connect them to your hub or router. The physical connection for both types of devices will be
the same.
Configuration
After the computers have been physically networked, you will need to configure each one.
► Applies To
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Home Networking
