I Want to Directly Link Two Computers

[tharden3]

Hey guys, real quick question. I just got my brother's alienware and would like to link it (directly) to my other computer on my desk. what should I use? Do I use a USB for that?

[Curtis Rutland]

What do you mean by "Directly Link"?

As in you want to transfer files?

[tharden3]

What do you mean by "Directly Link"?

As in you want to transfer files?

uhh, yes. By means of using something physical (like a cord), although if there is something I can use over the internet....

[Curtis Rutland]

Do you have a router? You can set up a simple LAN. Just plug both computers into the router. You should be able to access the files on the other computer using this syntax:
\\computername\share

[cloud255]

A cross-over cable will allow you to connect the computers by directly plugging the cable into the network ports. Just ask at your local computer store, they know how to make the cables.

[Nepomuk]

If you want to connect them directly, you'll need a crossed Ethernet cable and then you'll have to set both systems up. There's an article on how to do that here, although they're using Linux. But you should be able to make those settings in the Windows Network Administration window.

Of course, the router-method that insertAlias posted may be easier, as it requires less configuration.

Greetings,
Nepomuk

[Stang02GT]

Seeing as how this is a networking question I'm going to move it to the "Network" forum, incase there are other users who are looking to do the same thing.

[scottdavie]

For the hassle of connecting them via crossover cable I would recommend just buying a cheap hub as it will be so much easier. Some things struggle to work over crossover anyway. For example red alert 2 (as old as it is) does not like to work over crossover cable.