Local Area Networking - Upgrading and Repairing PCs - page 851

Because HomePNA networks are based on your existing telephone line, the patch cord included with
the NIC is usually long enough to connect with your existing RJ-11 telephone jack. The HomePNA
NIC has two jacks: one for the connection to the telephone line and the other to enable you to connect
your telephone to the NIC. Be sure you use the correct jack for each cable; otherwise, your network
won't work. HomePNA enables you to use your telephone system for voice and networking at the
same time.
Wireless network NICs use an external antenna to make the connection between computers. In some
cases, the antenna is built into the NIC, whereas in other cases the antenna is attached to the NIC or
needs to be extended from a storage position inside the NIC.
Switch/Access Point
UTP Ethernet networks require a switch if more than two computers will be networked. (You can use
a crossover cable between two computers only.) Wireless Ethernet networks also require an access
point if more than two computers will be networked or if the network will be used to share an Internet
connection. Switches and access points are normally included in a wireless router. With a wireless
router/switch as a starting point, additional switches or access points can then be added as necessary.
For a wired Ethernet network, use one or more switches of the correct speed with at least enough
ports for each computer on the network. For a wireless Ethernet network, you need at least one access
point, depending on the range of your wireless network. Most access points have a range of 150 to
250 feet indoors (and up to twice that distance or more outdoors), which is adequate for most homes
and many small businesses. You can use high-gain antennas or add more access points if you need a
wider area of coverage.
Configuring Your Network Software
Windows 9x, 2000, XP, and later normally install all of the networking software you need
automatically. Table 17.11 shows the minimum network software configuration you must install for
Windows peer-to-peer networking. Windows Vista and later editions use the Network and Sharing
Center to configure peer-to-peer networking.
For more information about Windows Vista/7/8 and networks, see the section, “ Networking with
Windows Vista/7/8 ,” p. 843 .
Use the Network icon in the Windows Control Panel to select your network settings. To set up your
network, you'll need the OS CDs, disks, or hard-disk image files and the network adapter drivers.
Devices like routers, access points, and switches either have software built in (accessible via an
internal web page), or they don't need any software at all.
To install a network component, follow this procedure:
1. Open the Network icon in the Control Panel.
2. The Configuration tab is displayed; select Add.
3. Select from the following:
• Client —Select if you want to install the Microsoft or other network clients for your
network. Every PC on a peer-to-peer network needs the Client for Microsoft Networks.
• Adapter —This should already be installed, but you can use this option to install a new
adapter.
• Protocol —For a simple, non-Internet network with versions of Windows before XP, install