Ethernet connection between two XP systems.

[Guest]

I want to set up a network between the system upstairs in my study, and my
wife's computer downstairs. All the 'help' data suggests I need a network
'hub' to install a connection. Can't I dispense with that and just connect
the two network ports with 10 metres of RJ-45 cable? Both systems are
running XP Home.

 

[Richard G. Harper]

In theory you could use an Ethernet "crossover" cable, since
straight-through cable won't work. But in reality some network cards don't
get the signal they're expecting with a crossover cable and it may not work.

 

[Hans-Georg Michna]

I want to set up a network between the system upstairs in my study, and my
wife's computer downstairs. All the 'help' data suggests I need a network
'hub' to install a connection. Can't I dispense with that and just connect
the two network ports with 10 metres of RJ-45 cable? Both systems are
running XP Home.

Richard already said the essentials. Let me just add that you
can buy a tiny, palm-sized 5 port switch for something like $20
or even less. So that shouldn't be much of a worry.

And such a switch doubles your cables' reach. And it allows you
to connect a third, fourth, fifth computer, should the need
arise.

Hans-Georg

 

[Guest]

Thanks to both of you. I have identified a local source for a hub, and will
take your advice. Again, many thanks.

 

[Hans-Georg Michna]

Thanks to both of you. I have identified a local source for a hub, and will
take your advice. Again, many thanks.

Are they still making hubs? You should actually buy a switch,
not a hub.

A hub would work, but it's a kind of obsolete type of equipment.

For details, please have a look at
http://www.michna.com/kb/SwitchHub.htm.

Hans-Georg