How to Connect Two Computers Together with an Ethernet Cable
Whether you wish to transfer files between two computers or play a multiplayer game on them, some form of connection between the computers is required. The simplest form of connection is the direct connection, using a single Ethernet cable to enable data transfer between the two computers. Setting up a direct connection only requires a few moments and will enable you to network two computers together for the transferring of files or any other purposes you might have.
1). Install networking cards on each computer if they do not currently have an on-board Ethernet port or a networking card installed. The networking card will plug into one of the PCI slots in the computer's expansion area and will feature an Ethernet port so the computer can be networked.
2). Plug one end of the Ethernet cable into the Ethernet port on the first computer. Make sure you insert the Ethernet cable's connector into the port completely; you should hear a click when the connector's retaining clip slides into place. This will ensure a good connection while preventing the Ethernet cable from accidentally coming unplugged.
3). Plug the other end of the Ethernet cable into the Ethernet port on the other computer. Once again, make sure you insert the cable's connector until you hear the retaining clip snap into place.
4). Boot up both computers. Run the network setup utility that comes with your operating system on the first computer, making sure you specify that you are directly connecting two computers without a router. You should be given the option to turn on file sharing; do so if you wish to transfer files from this computer to the other.
5). Create a network setup disk when asked if you would like to do so. Run this disk on the second computer to finish setting up the direct connection. Again, turn on file sharing if you wish to be able to transfer files from this computer to the other one.
