Network Addresses

Question

I am trying to get my Dell desktop running Windows 98 to network with my laptop (WindowsXP) both using 10/100 LAN cards.   I cannot run the XP network wizard on the desktop because the laptop lacks a floppy drive, so I camnnot copy the files.  To do it manually I need to set up addresses for both computers in XXX.XXX.XXX.XXX format.  I believe that there are specific addresses I should use.  Can anyone tell me what they are

_Paladin · Answer

Norman E,   UTP stands for Unshielded Twisted Pair.  It's a generic term.  Both straight through and crossover cables can be UTP.  In fact, most ethernet cable is unshielded (vs. shielded).  Odds are you have a straight through cable.   The tutorial  here should help you set up the network.  Make sure each computer has a unique name and IP address, that they are in the same Workgroup, that you have shared a drive or folder on each, that Netbios over TCP/IP is enabled and that you have properly configured any firewall to permit local access.  Windows XP has its own firewall, and many modern PCs also come with Norton Internet Security or McAfee Security Center, both of which have a firewall that needs to be configured to permit LAN traffic.

_Paladin · Answer

Norman E,

There are two schools of thought here. The first is that if the network adapter is configured to Obtain an IP Address Automatically on each PC, Windows will assign an Automatic Private Address which will be in the form 169.254.xxx.yyy and a corresponding subnet mask of 255.255.0.0. This takes a few minutes. Once the addresses are assigned you're good to go.

The second is that you can code your own static IP address, usually in the form 192.168.0.xxx. Use a subnet mask of 255.255.255.0. xxx in this example needs to be unique on each computer.

If you are connecting the two PCs directly, you must use an ethernet crossover cable. If you are using an intervening switch or hub use a regular straight through ethernet cable.

Norman E · Answer

Thank you.  I am going to configure manually using the addresses you have given me.  I suspect my other problem is that I am using a diect cable between the two.  It is called a UTP cable, which I suspect is not a crossover cable.  If it does not work this time I will buy another cable.

MRF4700 · Answer

Norman E Are both systems wired thru a network hub/router? What brand name and model of networking unit?

jmwills · Answer

Direct connection or thru a router?  Direct connection will require a crossover cable.

Networking, Internet, & Bluetooth

Network Addresses

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