Win XP Home networking problems

[Dave]

I am having trouble with a WinXP home network. Both
computers are running WinXP, I have a direct connection
(onboard LAN to onboard LAN) and have run the network
setup wizard on both.

However both computers keep coming up with the error
message "A network cable is unplugged" . I have checked
the network cable (and tried another one), both network
cards are working properly (according to device manager).

Is there something I am missing?!

 

[BobC]

I am having trouble with a WinXP home network. Both
computers are running WinXP, I have a direct connection
(onboard LAN to onboard LAN) and have run the network
setup wizard on both.

However both computers keep coming up with the error
message "A network cable is unplugged" . I have checked
the network cable (and tried another one), both network
cards are working properly (according to device manager).

Is there something I am missing?!

Are you sure you have a crossover cable?

 

[adrian916]

A direct connection between 2 pc's requires a crossover
cable as Bob suggests. An in line cable will only work
when going through a hub / router. If you're not sure
what you have, hold both ends of the cable together with
the plugs the same way up. If the coloured wires from
left to right are in the same order, you have an inline
cable - if they are in different orders, it's a crossover
(a crossover isn't a direct reversal - only some wires
change position)

 

[PT Cruiser]

How can one be sure he has a crossover cable if the purchase information is
not available? Is there some kind of test that can determine this?

PT

 

[BobC]

How can one be sure he has a crossover cable if the purchase information is
not available? Is there some kind of test that can determine this?

PT

Examine the ends of the cable. Thousands of sites have pictures but here is
one to start you out.
http://www.cabletron.com/support/techtips/tk0231-9.html