Computer help

[AnnW]

I always hear talk of "networking" your home computers, but never really understood what that meant. Can someone explain it to me using SMALL words? LOL
Also, we are going to have two computers now, is there anyway to tie the printer to both so we don't need two printers (they won't be in the same room).

TIA

[AnnW]

Someone please answer this!!!!

[SMB]

I asked my computer geek dh and he said it is possible but there is no short or easy way to do it. I can ask him again if you would like?

[AnnW]

Originally posted by SMB
I asked my computer geek dh and he said it is possible but there is no short or easy way to do it. I can ask him again if you would like?

network or connect the printers???
what does it mean to network computers???

please, thanks

[mommy bear]

My husband did this for our computers. He used ethernet cards and a hub. Basically the hub allows the computers to see and talk to each other. We share 1 printer, 1 internet connection and all our files. It's wonderful,but not necessarily easy to hook up. Dh also told me that if you just want to share files you can use direct connect with a direct connect cable. He thinks the directions for direct connection are in the control panel of Win95 or 98. If you want more details I can ask dh.

[AnnW]

Thanks Mommy Bear...my eyes did sort of glaze over at your easy explanation...let me think about a more detailed one! LOL

[windling]

It's called a LAN, or Local Area Network. A hub is generally the best way to go. If you already have a DSL connection, it's easier to set up. However, you should call your Internet provider and ask if networking your home computers will have an effect on service. I can tell you that my company can not give you any technical service or help until you are set up on a stand alone computer (that means no fax, hub, etc). Essentially, if you want to network your house, make sure you a) have someone who knows what they are doing set it up, and b) you don't negate your contract with your provider. The worst thing is when someone who doesn't know what they are doing sets up a network. You can seriously mess things up (I am talking about hardware damage, among other things).

Long story short: Call your service provider, ask if networks are supported, and if they are, ask them if they will help you set it up. (I'll tell you right now, if you have Earthlink, don't bother. They don't troubleshoot networks) If they won't support your network, call around to some tech support places (straight support, not another internet company) and ask them if they can help. Some places will even send a tech out to your house to help you. But don't do it yourself, please. It will be more headache than you want, if you aren't technically inclined.

-Brought to you by the night shift 2nd level Network Analyst (my really cool title that means nothing)

I hope I helped.

[AnnW]

Thanks for the info!!!
LOVE your title!! I always tell people I am the Cheif Operating Officer of a small family owned business....aka SAHM

[KarlaB]

Originally posted by AnnW
Thanks for the info!!!
LOVE your title!! I always tell people I am the Cheif Operating Officer of a small family owned business....aka SAHM

Love your title!!! Can't imagine the looks I would get if I told people that! LOL! And, thanks for asking this computer question - something we would be interested in doing too, but it seem like a lot of work and very confusing!