Here's my problem: We just got a new computer (Dell, P4, Windows XP). We want to set up a peer-to-peer network with our old computer (HP, sl-oo-oo-ow Athlon, Windows 98 ). Our problem? We have absolutely no clue what hardware we need. (We do have the Microsoft Network software to run a P2P network.) I read on AOL's simplistic notes about networking that it is possible to have a software-based network that doesn't require a hub, routers, etc. but just connects the systems using some sort of *unspecified* cable. If possible, we would like to use that option. (having to have the "main" one on all the time wouldn't be a problem... that's what would probably happen anyway). A couple notes to help all the computer wizards who will come to my aid ;D : 1. We do not have an ethernet card on the HP (we do have one on the Dell) 2. We do want to share a printer 3. We do want both computers to have internet access 4. We would prefer, if possible, to avoid buying additional hardware 5. It would be nice, but not necessary, if we could share drives. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ In short: * Is it possible to have a P2P network between WIN98 and WINXP? * What kind of software would we need to run a software-based P2P network between these computers? Does such software exist? if yes, where would we find it? * Is it possible to connect the two computers via a USB port? Would we still be able to share the printer? * If none of the above options are viable, what is the hardware we would need to run a P2P network? * Any other information you think will help would be most appreicated. TIA! Galadriel

You will need a network card(ethernet card) for the HP and a crossover cable(NOT a patch cable) to connect the two computers via the network cards. When you have them connected, run the Network Setup Wizard on your new computer by going to Start>Control Panel>Network and Internet Connections>Setup or change your home or small office network. This will walk you through the steps necessary to network and share an internet connection. Keep in mind, each computer will need to have a unique name and you must name the workgroup. For example, you might name the new computer "Dell" and the old computer "HP", and then, name the workgroup "HOME". When the process is finished on the first computer, choose to make a setup disk and run it on the second computer. Again, give this computer a seperate name such as the one I stated above, and name the workgroup the same as you have on the first computer. When you have finished the process on both computers, you will need to right-click on any drives, folders, and printers and choose the Sharing option. Simply choose to share any of these, and you should be able to share and transfer files between the two computers.

The best way is to get a router, then you don't have to use one particular box as a host. Either way you'll have to buy a NIC as far as I know. With a router though, both boxes will be connected to the internet, free of the other. Also, this allows easy setup for a network between the two (file and print sharing), in fact most routers have a printer router built in. Otherwise you could buy another NIC for the HP, and setup ICS on the host box. If you can though, I would go with a router, and I'm sure anyone else that reads this will agree. It's the only way to fly =) Added protection too.

I would agree that a router is the best option, but the poster seemed to be looking for the most affordable way to network the two computers and share an internet connection. I should also mention that if you have a DSL or Cable connection to the internet, I would strongly suggest using firewall software such as Zone Alarm to protect you from hackers. As the poster above mentioned, a router would indeed give you added protection since most have built-in firewalls.

Galadriel: jcksrobbins has some good suggestions for a cheap network. You need to buy an Ethernet card and an Ethernet cross-over cable. Make sure you know what type of internal expansion slots your 98 box has. Also make sure you know how much cable you'll need from computer to computer. My guess is that you have PCI slots. Ask your local computer/electronics store for a Windows 98 compatible Ethernet card for a PCI slot and some cross-over cable at "X" number of feet. IAsk the computer storefor instruction to install the card and cable. Follow jcksrobbins suggestions. You might have a few bugs so go here for some further help: http://www.computing.net/networking/wwwboard/forum/12033.html Setting up Print Sharing Print Server (Windows XP) Start -> Settings -> Printers and Faxes Right click on your printer -> Sharing -> Share this printer -> Type a Printer Name (eg. Printer) There is a section about "Additional Drivers" that will put the print drivers for previous versions of Windows on your Print Server. It's useful but not required. Print Client (Windows 98) First off, if your 98 box has any printers still installed on it, delete them. Less confusion. Start -> Settings -> Printers Double click Add Printer Select Network Printer Then input the path for the shared printer \\computer_name\share name (eg. \\Dell\Printer). If you are unsure, there is the browse option to find the shared printer. Follow the instructions to complete the setup. It is very similar to setting up a regular printer from here on in. You'll be asked the printer model (eg HP Deskjet). If it doesn't have it in the list, use the printer CD to install the 98 drivers. Keep in mind that the Print Server must be on for the Print Client to use its printer. I hope this helps. http://uslinux.ied.edu.hk/stufaq/7.3.html Internet Connection Sharing Windows XP Host http://www.homenethelp.com/ics/ics-install-sxp.asp Windows 98 Client http://www.homenethelp.com/ics/ics-install-client98.asp Cheers, Mike