Network setup

I have a desktop running Windows ME and two laptops both
running Windows XP. Where can I find or get detailed
instructions on how to setup each computer and then
connect each one so I can share folders between all
three. I want to use a USB Cable to connect the units as
I will only have two of the PCs near each other at one
time however, I would consider an internet setup to make
the connection. Is it possible to setup the computers,
with the same settings, so as to be able to have both a
USB Cable and internet connection?

I consider myself a high level novice or low level
intermidate. I should be able to follow some good
instructions and get this done.

Thank you in advance for your help.

Glenn

On Tue, 27 Apr 2004 13:02:48 -0700, "Glenn" <renegadeREMOVETHIS@datasync.con>
wrote:

>I have a desktop running Windows ME and two laptops both
>running Windows XP. Where can I find or get detailed
>instructions on how to setup each computer and then
>connect each one so I can share folders between all
>three. I want to use a USB Cable to connect the units as
>I will only have two of the PCs near each other at one
>time however, I would consider an internet setup to make
>the connection. Is it possible to setup the computers,
>with the same settings, so as to be able to have both a
>USB Cable and internet connection?
>
>I consider myself a high level novice or low level
>intermidate. I should be able to follow some good
>instructions and get this done.
>
>Thank you in advance for your help.
>
>Glenn

Glenn,

You can install a wireless USB adapter on each of the laptops, and on the
desktop if you wish, and setup an ad-hoc wireless network. But using a wireless
router is a much better solution for many reasons, assuming that your internet
service will support a router connection.

With a wireless router, an ethernet (or wireless) connection) between the router
and the desktop, and a pair of USB wireless adapters for the laptops, you would
be able to both share folders and internet connectivity between all 3 computers.

A standard USB cable can't be used to network 2 computers though. With a
standard USB Cable, one end has to be connected to a USB device, and the other
to a USB computer port. To connect 2 computers thru their USB ports, you will
need 2 USB network adapters. Just add a third adapter for the desktop, and a
router to connect them in infrastructure mode, and you will have a good network.

Here are a couple websites with useful tutorials:
http://www.cablesense.com/
http://www.homenethelp.com/

Cheers,
Chuck
Paranoia comes from experience - and is not necessarily a bad thing.