How to transfer data b/wn 2 computers using the network card?

[Martin Lynch]

I have a laptop with XP and a desktop with Win2K.

Is it possible to transfer data from the desktop
to the laptop by connecting a cord between the
two network cards?

I do not have a CD-RW, nor do I have a serial cable,
so I think using the network cards is my only option?

 

[Bob WIllard]

I have a laptop with XP and a desktop with Win2K.

Is it possible to transfer data from the desktop
to the laptop by connecting a cord between the
two network cards?

I do not have a CD-RW, nor do I have a serial cable,
so I think using the network cards is my only option?

Yes. The cheapest choice is to buy/borrow a Cat5 crossover
cable and connect its ends to the NICs in your two PCs.
Or, you can use a paid of standard (patch) Cat5 cables
along with a hub/switch/router in between. A crossover
cable is, effectively, a passive hub.

W2K can be made to network with XP, but M$'s wizard does
not help. See this site for configuration help:
http://www.practicallynetworked.com/sharing/xp/addxp.htm

 

[Martin Lynch]

Is a "Crossover cable" different from the
RJ45 to RJ45 connection cable that I use
to link my cable modem to my ethernet card?

If so, how do I disinguish what a crossover
cable would look like?

Thanks

 

[Arno Wagner]

Is a "Crossover cable" different from the
RJ45 to RJ45 connection cable that I use
to link my cable modem to my ethernet card?

Depends. In my case the cable-modem has internal crossover
and is connected with a straight cable.

If so, how do I disinguish what a crossover
cable would look like?

Often the connectors are coloureds (unsure sign).
If you look into the RJ45's and compare the color order
of the tiny cables in there, in a straight cable both
connectors match. In a crossover-cable some colors are
switched.

Regards,
Arno