What Do I Need to Network Two Computers to the Internet?

This guide describes how you can directly connect two computers for sharing files, photos, music and even your Internet connection. This method uses an inexpensive Ethernet crossover cable and doesn't require a router.

The simplest kind of home network contains exactly two computers. You can use this kind of network to share files, a printer or another peripheral device, and even an Internet connection. Two computers can be networked together for file sharing in several different ways.

Learn about hardware, routers, and the Internet connection needed to set up a network in your home or small office.

Learn about sharing an Internet connection by using Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) or a router.

Are you new to using computers? Do you wonder what people mean when they say the cloud, Windows, ISP, or app? Perhaps you just want to know more about how computers work. When it comes to learning today's technology, our Computer Basics tutorial has all of the basic concepts covered.