Hi, there are 2 small LAN networks at our business and I'd like to connect my machine to both but I'm not sure how. I have ethernet cables from both run to my machine and am just unplugging/plugging to change networks and it's a pain. For the 1st network, I need to use a specific IP address and this cable's froming from a switch, the 2nd network's cable is coming straight from a router so I need to use an "obtain and automatic IP address" in TCIP properties. The computer is running XP pro, and has one nic. I also have a USB ethernet adapter. I just tried plugging the 2nd (internet network) into the adapter but it still didn't show up under network connections. Basically I'm just not sure where or how I would set the property to obtain an IP address automatically (to get on the internet network from the router), and also type in the IP address to get on the office network. Is it even possible to access both networks at once? Thanks for any help.

Put a second NIC in your machine and configure them for the different networks (one network each). No more cable swapping!

Well, now that you mention it, it seems perfectly obvious since I'll then have 2 network connections. Thanks! Is there a reason why I can't use the USB ethernet adapter instead of a nic?

I can't see one....but then I've never used a USB ethernet adapter so I can't say offhand how well they work. I'd definately give it a try though before buying another NIC.

I put in a spare nic and I'm done switching cables! Regarding the adapter, I just realized I need a driver for it. duh. Anyway, thanks a lot for the help!