Creating An Ethernet Network; Installing Ethernet Cards And Drivers; Making Sure Your Broadband Connection Works; Naming The Computers And The Workgroup - Gateway computer User Manual

Creating an Ethernet network

Installing Ethernet cards and drivers

After you have determined the type of Ethernet you are using for your network, you need to
install Ethernet cards and drivers on the computers that do not have Ethernet already installed.
To order wired or wireless Ethernet PCI or PC cards, visit the Accessories Store at
accessories.gateway.com.
Use the documentation that comes with your Ethernet cards for instructions on installing the
card and any required drivers.

Making sure your broadband connection works

arrangements with your ISP. Be sure to find out how soon after the installation the line
will be activated.
Broadband Internet settings will differ from ISP to ISP. Before you begin setting up your
network, you should contact your ISP for any specific instructions they have for setting
up a network.
Before you change anything about your home setup, make sure that your broadband connection
is working correctly. To test the connection, log onto the Internet using your current setup. If
the connection is not working, contact your Internet service provider.

Naming the computers and the workgroup

same Workgroup Name.
To identify this computer on the network:
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CHAPTER 8: Networking Your Computer
Important
If you do not have a broadband connection already installed, make the necessary
Important
You must give each computer on the network a unique Computer Name and the
Click Start, then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens. If your Control Panel
is in Category View, click Performance and Maintenance. The Performance and
Maintenance window opens.
Click/Double-click System. The System Properties dialog box opens.
Click Computer Name.
Click Change. The Computer Name Changes dialog box opens.
Type a unique computer name in the Computer name box. This name identifies the
computer to other users on the network. Use a computer name of up to 15 characters
with no blank spaces. Each computer name must be unique on your network. All-numeric
computer names are not allowed. Names must contain some letters.
Type a name for your workgroup in the Workgroup box. Use a workgroup name of up
to 15 characters with no blank spaces. The workgroup name must be the same for all
computers in your network workgroup, and the name must be different than any computer
name on your network.
Click OK to close the Computer Name Changes dialog box.