Just bought a new second computer - would like to network.?

Question

My 1st computer is a desktop, and I just got a new laptop. I was curious to how:
1. To share folders
2. To share the printer
3. Is there a way to "mirror" both computers, where regardless of which one I am on, they both look and function the same?
4. Are there any websites that would cover this in depth. I have searched, and have not found exactly what I am looking for.

Thanks,

Answer 1

you can buy a reversed ethernet cable that will let you connect two computers using ethernet cards, or if not then a hub and two ethernet cards and be sure to use cat5 wire or better not just a 8 pin phone cable. It has to be twisted pairs.
You can share files folders printer that way. As far as mirroring never down that not sure why you want to. You can save user files in a common folder to share with both computers if that is what you mean.

Answer 2

You have to get a router as a first step to start the networking process. The Linksys site provides you with articles on what you need to do to network a home environment.

Since one is a laptop - a wireless router would be preferable.

Essentially, the output from your cable or DSL modem will go into the router. You will connect all of your PC's to the router - by wire or wireless. You will create a Home Workgroup to which all your PC's will belong. Once done that - when you right click on a folder and enable sharing for it - it will be visible to other PC's in your workgroup.

To mirror - you can use the Remote Desktop functionality in XP to remotely work on another PC. http://www.logmein.com is another site that provides the service for Free.

Answer 3

Yes this is all Possible
Buy a Linksys Cable Modem, and Router, I assume you want Internet Access.
The printer may have to be put on a Print server, but Not necessarily. You can always have a Y cable setup.
Mirror setups are difficult, but achievable. You can share one with the other, and have each update what is on the other, usually with the Native XP Pro system, but sometimes the trickiest part is size of hard disk, since some synch processes will look at this part
Also, some general Network info:
http://www.tailorcomputer.com/network.htm

Answer 4

first, to network them you will need a router. and eithernet cables, or use wireless.

1. to share folders right click on teh folder, go to properties and there is a tab that says sharing, where it says if you understand the risks of folder share clcik that and itw ill come up wtih 2 check boxes, check both of them and click ok and the folder will be shared.
if you want you can do it to your whole c drive.

2. on the computer that is connected to the printer you will have to go to the properties of your printer and in there it is similar to the folder sharing.
3. not that i have heard of, does mean you can't manually do that though.
4. if i had more time i would look but i have to go know. sorry hope i gave you some useful information.

Answer 5

Good Luck!

You should have asked the sales staff those questions before you purchased the laptop.