Network Cable unplugged- Both computers

[Guest]

I have been trying to help my uncle sort out his networking, over the phone,
from his PC to laptop since he bought his new laptop.

He purchased a network cable a couple of days ago (The blue ones) and
connected the two. One runs XP Home and the other runs XP Pro.

From what he tells me, both networks cards are functioning (System
Properties) and the cable works. Unfortunately it says "a network cable is
unplugged" on both computers. I thought it may be one computer didnt have
"client for microsoft networks" installed, and installed it, but that didnt
help.

We also tried uninstalling and reinstalling all the listed components (see
below) but no change.

Both computers have installed:
*Client for microsoft networks
*File and Printer Sharing
*QoS Packet Scheduler
*Internet TCP/IP

Also, the Status option for the LAN connection from "network connections"
cannot be selected, neither can Repair. Only properties

If anyone has any ideas please help!!

 

[Chuck]

I have been trying to help my uncle sort out his networking, over the phone,
from his PC to laptop since he bought his new laptop.

He purchased a network cable a couple of days ago (The blue ones) and
connected the two. One runs XP Home and the other runs XP Pro.

From what he tells me, both networks cards are functioning (System
Properties) and the cable works. Unfortunately it says "a network cable is
unplugged" on both computers. I thought it may be one computer didnt have
"client for microsoft networks" installed, and installed it, but that didnt
help.

<SNIP>

Don't concentrate on colour. Get a cross-over cable. A straight-thru (patch)
cable, which is 95% of what's available, won't do the job. Then read my
tutorial.
<http://nitecruzr.blogspot.com/2005/07/connecting-two-computers-with.html>
http://nitecruzr.blogspot.com/2005/07/connecting-two-computers-with.html

 

[Guest]

I also just went thru this same issue. You need the crossover cable, CAT 6.
NOT the more common CAT 5 used with routers and hubs.

 

[Chuck]

I also just went thru this same issue. You need the crossover cable, CAT 6.
NOT the more common CAT 5 used with routers and hubs.

More details, please. Why is Cat6 needed here? A Cat5 crossover is fine in
most short runs between 2 computers. If it's a long run between the 2
computers, a normal straight-thru cable, with a crossover plug on one end, is
far cheaper than a long crossover cable. Crossover cables are overpriced; the
long ones are way overpriced.