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In this articleThis article walks you through the steps of evaluating, preparing, and setting up your small business network. The article is for IT Pros who help set up your small business network. Applies to: Windows 10 - all editions, Windows Server 2012 R2 Original KB number: 10064 Evaluate network typesMany small businesses use a network to share access to the Internet, printers, and files from one computer to another. While having a network almost surely benefits your business, you need to decide which kind of network is the best option for your business depending on its unique and specific needs. The choices you have are wired, wireless, and hybrid networks. When you select a network for your business, you should consider two main points - the location of your devices and how fast you want your network to be. Although costs are similar between the different types, prices will vary according to the network speed that you select. The following sections describe the different network options available. Wired networksWired or Ethernet networks can transfer data from 10 Mbps to 1000 Mbps, depending on the type of cables you use. Gigabit Ethernet provides the fastest transfer rate at up to 1 gigabit per second (1000 Mbps). Advantages
Drawbacks
Hardware requirements
Wireless networksWireless networks can transfer data anywhere from 10-600 megabytes per second (Mbps) depending on the type of wireless standard that your modem uses. Advantages
Drawbacks
Hardware requirements
If your device has built-in wireless capabilities, then you don't need a wireless network adapter. Hybrid networksHybrid networks use a combination of wireless and wired networks and offer the best of both network types so that you can use faster wired desktops and portable wireless mobile devices, such as laptops, tablets and smartphones. A hybrid network relies on special hybrid routers, hubs, switches, and Ethernet cables to connect wired and wireless devices. A hybrid router does two things - broadcasts a wireless signal and provides wired access ports. It's most commonly referred to as a wireless or Wi-Fi router with Ethernet ports or "LAN ports". A hybrid wired/wireless network seems to offer the best of both worlds in speed, mobility, affordability and security. If users need maximum Internet and file-sharing speed, they can plug into the network with an Ethernet cable. If they need to share a streaming video in the office hallway, they can access the network wirelessly. With the right planning, an organization can save money on CAT5/CAT6 cables and routers by maximizing the reach of the wireless network. With the right encryption and password management in place, the wireless portion of the network can be as secure as the wired.
Install a wired networkWired networks are faster, more secure, and reliable than wireless networks. They also reduce the chance of outside interference. At the same time, they require a bit more work to set up and the hardware is more expensive. Note If your small business has lots of floor space, such as a manufacturing facility, you may experience signal degradation if there are very long cables between devices. You can often improve the signal by using an Ethernet repeater to strengthen the signal. To begin, follow the procedure for the version of Windows running on the device that you want to connect to your network. All of your devices don't need to run the same version of Windows to be a part of your business network. Connect the cablesTo begin, run an Ethernet cable from the router or hub to each device that you want to connect to the network. Install the network adaptersWindows can automatically detect and install the correct network adapter software for you. To check whether your device has a network adapter, follow the instructions.
Set up your routerIf your router displays the Windows logo or the phrase Compatible with Windows, you can set it up automatically using the latest version of Windows Connect Now (WCN). Otherwise, most routers come with instructions and a setup CD that will help you set them up. If you have a combined modem and router, follow these instructions:
Connect your router to the InternetTo connect your router to the Internet, follow the instructions.
If your home or office is wired for Ethernet, set up the devices in rooms that have Ethernet jacks, and then plug them directly into the Ethernet jacks. Set up a separate modem to attach to a routerIf you purchased a separate modem and router, follow these instructions:
Connect the modem to the InternetFollow the instructions to Connect the modem to the Internet.
Set up a firewallA firewall is hardware or software that helps control the spread of malicious software on your network and helps to protect your devices when you use the Internet. Don't turn off Windows Firewall unless you have another firewall turned on. Turning off Windows Firewall might make your device and network vulnerable to damage from hackers. To set up a firewall, follow the instructions:
Enable file and printer sharing with a firewallWindows Firewall automatically opens the correct ports for file and printer sharing when you share content or turn on network discovery. If you're using another firewall, you must open these ports yourself so that your device can find other devices that have files or printers that you want to share. To find other devices running Windows 8, Windows 7, or Windows Vista, open these ports:
To find other devices running earlier versions of Windows, and to use file and printer sharing on any version of Windows, open these ports:
To find network devices, open these ports:
Connect devices to the networkIf the devices running Windows 7 are connected to either a hub or a switch using a cable, then they're already on the network, and ready to use. If you had to change the workgroup name, you're prompted to restart your device. Restart the device, and then continue with the following steps.
Connect the cablesTo begin, run an Ethernet cable from the router or hub to each device that you want to connect to the network. Install the network adaptersWindows can automatically detect and install the correct network adapter software for you. To check whether your device has a network adapter, follow the instructions.
Set up your routerIf your router displays the Windows logo or the phrase Compatible with Windows, you can set it up automatically using the latest version of Windows Connect Now (WCN). Otherwise, most routers come with instructions and a setup CD that will help you set them up. If you have a combined modem and router, follow these instructions:
Connect your router to the InternetTo connect your router to the Internet, follow the instructions.
If your home or office is wired for Ethernet, set up the devices in rooms that have Ethernet jacks, and then plug them directly into the Ethernet jacks. Set up a separate modem to attach to a routerIf you purchased a separate modem and router, follow these instructions:
Connect the modem to the InternetFollow the instructions to connect the modem to the Internet.
Set up a firewallA firewall is hardware or software that helps control the spread of malicious software on your network and helps to protect your devices when you use the Internet. Don't turn off Windows Firewall unless you have another firewall turned on. Turning off Windows Firewall might make your device and network vulnerable to damage from hackers. To set up a firewall, follow the instructions:
Enable file and printer sharing with a firewallWindows Firewall automatically opens the correct ports for file and printer sharing when you share content or turn on network discovery. If you're using another firewall, you must open these ports yourself so that your device can find other devices that have files or printers that you want to share. To find other devices running Windows 8, Windows 7, or Windows Vista, open these ports:
To find other devices running earlier versions of Windows, and to use file and printer sharing on any version of Windows, open these ports:
To find network devices, open these ports:
To make HomeGroup work between devices running Windows 7, open these ports:
Connect devices to the networkIf the devices running Windows Vista are connected to either a hub or a switch using a cable, then they're already on the network, and ready to use. If you had to change the workgroup name, you're prompted to restart your device. Restart the device, and then continue with the following steps.
Connect the cablesTo begin, run an Ethernet cable from the router or hub to each device that you want to connect to the network. Install the network adaptersWindows can automatically detect and install the correct network adapter software for you. To check whether your device has a network adapter, follow the instructions.
Set up your routerIf your router displays the Windows logo or the phrase Compatible with Windows, you can set it up automatically using the latest version of Windows Connect Now (WCN). Otherwise, most routers come with instructions and a setup CD that will help you set them up. If you have a combined modem and router, follow these instructions:
Connect your router to the InternetTo connect your router to the Internet, follow the instructions.
If your home or office is wired for Ethernet, set up the devices in rooms that have Ethernet jacks, and then plug them directly into the Ethernet jacks. Set up a separate modem to attach to a routerIf you purchased a separate modem and router, follow these instructions:
Connect the modem to the InternetFollow the instructions to connect the modem to the Internet.
Set up a firewallA firewall is hardware or software that helps control the spread of malicious software on your network and helps to protect your devices when you use the Internet. Don't turn off Windows Firewall unless you have another firewall turned on. Turning off Windows Firewall might make your device and network vulnerable to damage from hackers. To set up a firewall, follow the instructions:
Enable file and printer sharing with a firewallWindows Firewall automatically opens the correct ports for file and printer sharing when you share content or turn on network discovery. If you're using another firewall, you must open these ports yourself so that your device can find other devices that have files or printers that you want to share. To find other devices running Windows 8, Windows 7, or Windows Vista, open these ports:
To find other devices running earlier versions of Windows, and to use file and printer sharing on any version of Windows, open these ports:
To find network devices, open these ports:
Connect devices to the networkIf the devices running Windows Vista are connected to either a hub or a switch using a cable, then they're already on the network, and ready to use. If you had to change the workgroup name, you're prompted to restart your device. Restart the device, and then continue with the following steps.
Connect the cablesTo begin, run an Ethernet cable from the router or hub to each device that you want to connect to the network. Install the network adaptersWindows can automatically detect and install the correct network adapter software for you. To check whether your device has a network adapter, follow the instructions.
Set up your routerIf your router displays the Windows logo or the phrase Compatible with Windows, you can set it up automatically using the latest version of Windows Connect Now (WCN). Otherwise, most routers come with instructions and a setup CD that will help you set them up. If you have a combined modem and router, follow these instructions:
Connect your router to the InternetTo connect your router to the Internet, follow the instructions.
Building already wired for EthernetIf your home or office is wired for Ethernet, set up the devices in rooms that have Ethernet jacks, and then plug them directly into the Ethernet jacks. Set up a separate modem to attach to a routerIf you purchased a separate modem and router, follow these instructions:
Connect the modem to the InternetFollow the instructions to connect the modem to the Internet.
Set up a firewallA firewall is hardware or software that helps control the spread of malicious software on your network and helps to protect your devices when you use the Internet. Don't turn off Windows Firewall unless you have another firewall turned on. Turning off Windows Firewall might make your device and network vulnerable to damage from hackers. To Set up a firewall, follow the instructions:
Enable file and printer sharing with a firewallWindows Firewall automatically opens the correct ports for file and printer sharing when you share content or turn on network discovery. If you're using another firewall, you must open these ports yourself so that your device can find other devices that have files or printers that you want to share. To find other devices running Windows XP or earlier versions of Windows, and to use file and printer sharing on any version of Windows, open these ports:
To find network devices, open these ports:
Connect devices to the networkIf you have devices running Windows XP, you may need to do a little more work to add those devices. To add a wired (Ethernet) device that is running Windows XP
If you had to change the workgroup name, you're prompted to restart your device. Restart the device, and then continue with the following steps.
Install a wireless networkNow that you've decided to invest in a wireless network for your business, you have to select a network standard and set up your network. Wireless networks (WLANs) don't require much in the way of network infrastructure. Many small business owners select wireless networking because it's flexible, inexpensive, and easy to install and maintain. You can use a wireless network to share Internet access, files, printers, file servers, and other devices in your office. Once you have the network set up, you can enable sharing, set permissions, and add printers and other devices. To begin, follow the procedure for the version of Windows running on the device that you want to connect to your network. All of your devices don't need to run the same version of Windows to be a part of your business network. Select a wireless network standardThe most common wireless network standards are 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11a, and 802.11n. Prices vary for each standard as do data transfer rates. Typically the faster the data transfer rate, the more you pay. In general, data transfer rates for each standard work as follows:
Note The transfer times listed are under ideal conditions. They aren't necessarily achievable under typical circumstances because of differences in hardware, web servers, network traffic, and other factors. Set up your wireless routerA wireless router sends information between your network and the Internet by using radio signals instead of wires. You should use a router that supports faster wireless signals, such as 802.11g or 802.11n. For the best results, put your wireless router, wireless modem router (a DSL or cable modem with a built-in wireless router), or wireless access point (WAP) in a central location in your office. If your router is on the first floor and your devices are on the second floor, put the router high on a shelf on the first floor. Note Metal objects, walls, and floors can interfere with your router's wireless signals. Set up your modem and Internet connectionIf your ISP didn't set up your modem, follow the instructions that came with your modem to connect it to your device and the Internet. If you're using a Digital Subscriber Line (DSL), connect your modem to a telephone jack. If you're using cable, connect your modem to a cable jack. Set up a modem and routerTo set up two pieces of hardware, a modem and a router, follow these instructions:
Set up a combined modem and routerIf you have a combined modem and router, follow these instructions:
Complete the modem and router setupTo complete the modem and router setup, follow the instructions to complete set up.
A network adapter connects your device to a networkTo connect to a wireless network, your device must have a wireless network adapter. Make sure that you get the same type of adapters as your wireless router. The type of adapter is marked on the package with a letter, such as G or A. To check whether your device has a wireless network adapter, follow the instructions.
Set up a security key for your networkEvery wireless network has a network security key to help protect it from unauthorized access. To set up a network security key, follow the instructions.
Set up a firewallA firewall is hardware or software that helps protect your device from hackers or malicious software. Running a firewall on each device on your network can help control the spread of malicious software on your network and help protect your devices when you use the Internet. Don't turn off Windows Firewall unless you have another firewall turned on. Turning off Windows Firewall might make your device and network vulnerable to damage from hackers. To set up a firewall, follow the instructions:
Enable file and printer sharing with a firewallWindows Firewall automatically opens the correct ports for file and printer sharing when you share content or turn on network discovery. If you're using another firewall, you must open these ports yourself so that your device can find other devices that have files or printers that you want to share. To find other devices running Windows 8, Windows 7, or Windows Vista, open these ports:
To find other devices running earlier versions of Windows, and to use file and printer sharing on any version of Windows, open these ports:
To find network devices, open these ports:
Save your wireless network settings to a USB flash driveSwipe in from the right edge of the screen (if using a mouse, point to the upper-right corner of the screen and move the mouse pointer down).
Use a USB flash drive to connect to the networkIf you want to use a USB flash drive to copy network settings to your device instead of typing a security key or passphrase, follow these steps:
Connect devices to the networkTo connect a device to your network, follow the instructions.
Select a wireless network standardThe most common wireless network standards are 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11a, and 802.11n. Prices vary for each standard as do data transfer rates. Typically the faster the data transfer rate, the more you pay. In general, data transfer rates for each standard work as follows:
Note The transfer times listed are under ideal conditions. They aren't necessarily achievable under typical circumstances because of differences in hardware, web servers, network traffic, and other factors. Set up your wireless routerA wireless router sends information between your network and the Internet by using radio signals instead of wires. You should use a router that supports faster wireless signals, such as 802.11g or 802.11n. For the best results, put your wireless router, wireless modem router (a DSL or cable modem with a built-in wireless router), or wireless access point (WAP) in a central location in your office. If your router is on the first floor and your devices are on the second floor, put the router high on a shelf on the first floor. Note Metal objects, walls, and floors can interfere with your router's wireless signals. Set up your modem and Internet connectionIf your ISP didn't set up your modem, follow the instructions that came with your modem to connect it to your device and the Internet. If you're using a Digital Subscriber Line (DSL), connect your modem to a telephone jack. If you're using cable, connect your modem to a cable jack. Set up a modem and routerTo set up two pieces of hardware, a modem and a router, follow these instructions:
Set up a combined modem and routerIf you have a combined modem and router, follow these instructions:
Complete the modem and router setupTo complete the modem and router setup, follow the instructions:
Set up your wireless network adaptersTo check whether your device has a wireless network adapter, follow the instructions.
Set up a firewallA firewall is hardware or software that helps control the spread of malicious software on your network and helps to protect your devices when you use the Internet. Don't turn off Windows Firewall unless you have another firewall turned on. Turning off Windows Firewall might make your device and network vulnerable to damage from hackers. To set up a firewall, follow the instructions:
Enable file and printer sharing with a firewallWindows Firewall automatically opens the correct ports for file and printer sharing when you share content or turn on network discovery. If you're using another firewall, you must open these ports yourself so that your device can find other devices that have files or printers that you want to share. To find other devices running Windows 8, Windows 7, or Windows Vista, open these ports:
To find other devices running earlier versions of Windows, and to use file and printer sharing on any version of Windows, open these ports:
To find network devices, open these ports:
To make HomeGroup work between devices running Windows 7, open these ports:
Save your wireless network settings to a USB flash drive
Use a USB flash drive to connect to the networkIf you want to use a USB flash drive to copy network settings to your device instead of typing a security key or passphrase, follow these steps:
Connect devices to the networkTo connect a device to your network, follow the instructions.
Select a wireless network standardThe most common wireless network standards are 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11a, and 802.11n. Prices vary for each standard as do data transfer rates. Typically the faster the data transfer rate, the more you pay. In general, data transfer rates for each standard work as follows:
Set up your wireless routerA wireless router sends information between your network and the Internet by using radio signals instead of wires. You should use a router that supports faster wireless signals, such as 802.11g or 802.11n. For the best results, put your wireless router, wireless modem router (a DSL or cable modem with a built-in wireless router), or wireless access point (WAP) in a central location in your office. If your router is on the first floor and your devices are on the second floor, put the router high on a shelf on the first floor. Note Metal objects, walls, and floors can interfere with your router's wireless signals. Set up your modem and Internet connectionIf your ISP didn't set up your modem, follow the instructions that came with your modem to connect it to your device and the Internet. If you're using a Digital Subscriber Line (DSL), connect your modem to a telephone jack. If you're using cable, connect your modem to a cable jack. Set up a modem and routerTo set up two pieces of hardware, a modem and a router, follow these instructions:
Set up a combined modem and routerIf you have a combined modem and router, follow these instructions:
Complete the modem and router setupTo complete the modem and router setup, follow the instructions to complete set up.
Set up your wireless network adaptersA network adapter connects your device to a network. To connect to a wireless network, your device must have a wireless network adapter. Make sure that you get the same type of adapters as your wireless router. The type of adapter is marked on the package with a letter, such as G or A. To check whether your device has a wireless network adapter, follow the instructions.
Set up a security key for your networkEvery wireless network has a network security key to help protect it from unauthorized access. To set up a network security key, follow the instructions.
Make sure that you write the security key and keep it in a safe place. If you have a USB flash drive, you can also save your security key to the flash drive by following the instructions in the wizard. Set up a firewallA firewall is hardware or software that helps control the spread of malicious software on your network and helps to protect your devices when you use the Internet. Don't turn off Windows Firewall unless you have another firewall turned on. Turning off Windows Firewall might make your device and network vulnerable to damage from hackers. To set up a firewall, follow the instructions:
Enable file and printer sharing with a firewallWindows Firewall automatically opens the correct ports for file and printer sharing when you share content or turn on network discovery. If you're using another firewall, you must open these ports yourself so that your device can find other devices that have files or printers that you want to share. To find other devices running Windows 8, Windows 7, or Windows Vista, open these ports:
To find other devices running earlier versions of Windows, and to use file and printer sharing on any version of Windows, open these ports:
To find network devices, open these ports:
Save your wireless network settings to a USB flash drive
Use a USB flash drive to connect to the networkIf you want to use a USB flash drive to copy network settings to your device instead of typing a security key or passphrase, follow these steps:
Connect devices to the networkTo connect a device to your network, follow the instructions.
Select a wireless network standardThe most common wireless network standards are 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11a, and 802.11n. Prices vary for each standard as do data transfer rates. Typically the faster the data transfer rate, the more you pay. In general, data transfer rates for each standard work as follows:
Set up your wireless routerA wireless router sends information between your network and the Internet by using radio signals instead of wires. You should use a router that supports faster wireless signals, such as 802.11g or 802.11n. For the best results, put your wireless router, wireless modem router (a DSL or cable modem with a built-in wireless router), or wireless access point (WAP) in a central location in your office. If your router is on the first floor and your devices are on the second floor, put the router high on a shelf on the first floor. Note Metal objects, walls, and floors can interfere with your router's wireless signals. Set up your modem and Internet connectionIf your ISP didn't set up your modem, follow the instructions that came with your modem to connect it to your device and the Internet. If you're using a Digital Subscriber Line (DSL), connect your modem to a telephone jack. If you're using cable, connect your modem to a cable jack. Set up a modem and routerTo set up two pieces of hardware, a modem and a router, follow these instructions:
Set up a combined modem and routerIf you have a combined modem and router, follow these instructions:
Complete the modem and router setupTo complete the modem and router setup, follow the instructions:
Set up your wireless network adaptersA network adapter connects your device to a network. To connect to a wireless network, your device must have a wireless network adapter. Make sure that you get the same type of adapters as your wireless router. The type of adapter is marked on the package with a letter, such as G or A. To check whether your device has a wireless network adapter, follow the instructions.
Set up a security key for your networkEvery wireless network has a network security key to help protect it from unauthorized access. To set up a network security key, follow the instructions.
Make sure that you write the security key and keep it in a safe place. If you have a USB flash drive, you can also save your security key to the flash drive by following the instructions in the wizard. Set up a firewallA firewall is hardware or software that helps control the spread of malicious software on your network and helps to protect your devices when you use the Internet. Don't turn off Windows Firewall unless you have another firewall turned on. Turning off Windows Firewall might make your device and network vulnerable to damage from hackers. To set up a firewall, follow the instructions:
Enable file and printer sharing with a firewallWindows Firewall automatically opens the correct ports for file and printer sharing when you share content or turn on network discovery. If you're using another firewall, you must open these ports yourself so that your device can find other devices that have files or printers that you want to share. To find other devices running Windows 8, Windows 7, or Windows Vista, open these ports:
To find other devices running earlier versions of Windows, and to use file and printer sharing on any version of Windows, open these ports:
To find network devices, open these ports:
Save your wireless network settings to a USB flash drive
Use a USB flash drive to connect to the networkIf you want to use a USB flash drive to copy network settings to your device instead of typing a security key or passphrase, follow these steps:
Connect devices to the networkTo connect a device to your network, follow the instructions.
For details on troubleshooting network connections for Windows XP devices, see Fix Wi-Fi connection issues in Windows. Create and manage workgroupsA workgroup is a group of devices that are connected to a home or small office network and share resources, such as printers and files. When you set up a network, Windows automatically creates a workgroup and gives it a name. In a workgroup:
Find the default workgroupTo find a workgroup name, follow the instructions.
Join or create a workgroupTo join or create a workgroup, follow the instructions.
Change a workgroup nameIf you want to change a workgroup name, follow these instructions:
Find the default workgroupTo find a workgroup name, follow the instructions.
Join or create a workgroupTo join or create a workgroup, follow the instructions.
Change a workgroup nameIf you want to change a workgroup name, follow these instructions:
Find the default workgroupTo find a workgroup name, follow the instructions.
Join or create a workgroupTo join or create a workgroup, follow the instructions.
Change a workgroup nameIf you want to change a workgroup name, follow these instructions:
Install a hybrid networkA hybrid network refers to any computer network that contains two or more communications standards such Ethernet (802.3) and Wi-Fi (802.11 a/b/g). A hybrid network relies on special hybrid routers, hubs, and switches to connect both wired and wireless computers and other network-enabled devices. It enables the network to maximize the benefits of both these network types. Central access pointIn a wired computer network, all devices are connected by physical cables to a central access point. This access point can be a router, hub, or a switch. The function of this access point is to share a network connection among several devices. All the devices are plugged into the access point using individual Ethernet (CAT 5) cables. If the devices need to share an Internet connection as well, then the access point is plugged into a broadband Internet modem, either cable or DSL. In a standard wireless network, all networked devices communicate with a central wireless access point that broadcasts a signal. The devices themselves need to contain wireless modems or cards that conform with one or more Wi-Fi standards, either 802.11 a, b or g, to receive the signal. In this network configuration, all wireless devices can share files with each other over the network. If they also want to share an Internet connection, then the wireless access point is plugged into a broadband Internet modem. A standard hybrid network uses a hybrid access point, a networking device that broadcasts a wireless signal and contains wired access ports. The most common hybrid access point is a hybrid router. The typical hybrid router broadcasts a Wi-Fi signal using 802.11 a, b, or g and contains four Ethernet ports for connecting wired devices. The hybrid router also has a port for connecting to a cable or DSL modem via an Ethernet cable. When shopping for a hybrid router, you might not see the word "hybrid" anywhere. You're more likely to see the router advertised as a wireless or Wi-Fi router with Ethernet ports or "LAN ports". After you determine which of your devices you want to connect with wires and which ones wirelessly, follow the procedures that are listed in Install a wired network, and Install a wireless network respectively to set up these parts of the hybrid network. Network configurationsThere are several different possible network configurations for a hybrid network. The most basic configuration has all the wired devices plugged into the Ethernet ports of the hybrid router, and the wireless devices connected to the router wirelessly. Then the wireless devices can communicate with the wired devices via the hybrid router. If you want to network more than four wired devices, you can string several routers together, both wired and wireless, in a daisy chain formation. You'll need enough wired routers to handle all of the wired devices (the number of devices divided by four). And you'll need enough wireless routers in the right physical locations to broadcast a Wi-Fi signal to every corner of the network. In this way, you can connect both computers and peripherals such as printers and fax machines and place them where it will easy to access them. A hybrid wired/Wi-Fi network offers the best of both worlds: the speed and security of a wired network and the mobility and affordability of a wireless network. When you need the maximum Internet and file-sharing speed for your work, you can plug into the network with an Ethernet cable. If you need to show a streaming video to your colleague in the office hallway, you can access the network wirelessly. With the right planning, your small business can save money on CAT 5 cables and routers by maximizing the reach of the wireless network. And with the right encryption and password management in place, the wireless portion of the network can be as secure as the wired. After you set up your network, you might want to add more sharing options for your work and devices. Some of these options are set automatically, while others can be set manually. Sharing options for your device include:
Sharing options that turn on automaticallyIn Windows 8.1 and Windows 8, when you connect to a network for the first time, you're given the option to turn on sharing and set the network location based upon your selection. Sharing options that need to be turned on manuallyIf certain sharing options don't turn on automatically, you can activate them manually. These manual activation options include:
Network discoveryNetwork discovery is a network setting that lets your device find other devices on the network and other devices find your device. Such functionality makes it easier to share files and printers. There are three network discovery states:
To manually activate network discovery, follow the instructions.
Network sharing (formerly network location)Network sharing automatically adjusts security and other settings based on the type of network connected to your device. To check whether network sharing is enabled, follow the instructions. The first time you connect to a network, you'll be asked if you want to turn on sharing between devices and connect to network devices such as printers. Your answer automatically sets the appropriate firewall and security settings for the type of network. You can turn sharing on or off at any time. Turn sharing on or off in Windows 8.1 and Windows 8
Note
Printer SharingTo manually activate printer sharing, follow the instructions.
To share a file or folder, follow the instructions for the version of Windows installed on your device.
Password-protected sharingWith password-protected sharing, people on your network can't access shared folders on other devices, including Public folders, unless they have a user name and password on the device for shared folders. To activate password-protected sharing, follow the instructions.
Network mapThe network map is a graphical view of the devices and devices on your network. The map shows how devices are connected and includes any problem areas. It can be helpful for troubleshooting. Windows 8.1 and Windows 8 don't have the network map feature. Sharing options that turn on automaticallyFor Windows 7, certain sharing options turn on automatically. For example, when you change your network location to Home or Work, network discovery is automatically turned on. Similarly, file sharing turns on automatically the first time you try to share a file or folder. Sharing options that need to be turned on manuallyIf certain sharing options don't turn on automatically, you can activate them manually. These manual activation options include:
Network discoveryNetwork discovery is a network setting that lets your device find other devices on the network and other devices find your device. Such functionality makes it easier to share files and printers. There are three network discovery states:
To manually activate network discovery, follow the instructions.
Network sharing (formerly network location)Windows 7 automatically adjusts security and other settings based on the type of network connected to your device. If you skip this step, then the first time that you connect to the network, you'll be asked to select your network location. You can change this setting later. Check the network location devicesThere are four network locations you can use for Windows 7 devices:
For your small business network, make sure that the network location type is set to Home or Work. Here's how to check:
Printer SharingTo manually activate printer sharing, follow the instructions.
Password-protected sharingWith password-protected sharing, people on your network can't access shared folders on other devices, including Public folders, unless they have a user name and password on the device for shared folders. To activate password-protected sharing, follow the instructions.
Network mapThe network map is a graphical view of the devices and devices on your network. The map shows how devices are connected and includes any problem areas. It can be helpful for troubleshooting. The network map is available in the Network and Sharing Center on Windows 7. Sharing options that turn on automaticallyFor Windows Vista, certain sharing options turn on automatically. For example, when you change your network location to Home or Work, network discovery is automatically turned on. Similarly, file sharing turns on automatically the first time you try to share a file or folder. Sharing options that need to be turned on manuallyIf certain sharing options don't turn on automatically, you can activate them manually. These manual activation options include:
Network discoveryNetwork discovery is a network setting that lets your device find other devices on the network and other devices find your device. Such functionality makes it easier to share files and printers. There are three network discovery states:
To manually activate network discovery, follow the instructions.
Network sharing (formerly network location)Windows 7 automatically adjusts security and other settings based on the type of network connected to your device. If you skip this step, then the first time that you connect to the network, you'll be asked to select your network location. You can change this setting later. Check the network location devices
For your small business network, make sure that the network location type is set to Home or Work. Here's how to check:
Printer SharingTo manually activate printer sharing, follow the instructions.
To share a file or folder, follow the instructions:
Password-protected sharingWith password-protected sharing, people on your network can't access shared folders on other devices, including Public folders, unless they have a user name and password on the device for shared folders. To activate password-protected sharing, follow the instructions.
Network mapThe network map is a graphical view of the devices and devices on your network. The map shows how devices are connected and includes any problem areas. It can be helpful for troubleshooting. The network map is available in the Network and Sharing Center on Windows Vista. Sharing options that turn on automaticallyIn Windows XP, password-protected file sharing is turned on by default. Note Windows XP only detects and accesses devices that are in the same workgroup. Sharing options that need to be turned on manuallyIf certain sharing options don't turn on automatically, you can activate them manually. These manual activation options include:
Network discoveryNetwork discovery is a network setting that lets your device find other devices on the network and other devices find your device. Such functionality makes it easier to share files and printers. There are three network discovery states:
To ensure that a Windows XP device displays on the network, install the Link-Layer Topology Discovery (LLTD) protocol on the device. If this operation doesn't resolve the problem, enable file and printer sharing, and NETBIOS.
Printer SharingTo manually activate printer sharing, follow the instructions.
Note If your network consists of devices that are running similar hardware and software, you can select the option to download additional printer drivers on the host system. We do not recommend this option if you have a mixed network that includes more than one combination of 32-bit and 64-bit operating systems. To share a file or folder, follow the instructions.
Note If your network contains devices running different versions of Windows, put all devices in the same workgroup. This makes it possible for devices that are running different versions of Windows to detect and access one another. Remember that the default workgroup name is not the same in all versions of Windows. Password-protected sharingWith password-protected sharing, people on your network can't access shared folders on other devices, including Public folders, unless they have a user name and password on the device for shared folders. With Windows XP, password protected sharing is turned on by default. Network mapThe network map is a graphical view of the devices and devices on your network. The map shows how devices are connected and includes any problem areas. It can be helpful for troubleshooting. If you want a device running Windows XP to appear on the network map, you might have to install the Link-Layer Topology Discovery (LLTD) protocol on that device. If Windows XP devices still don't appear on the network map even after you install the LLTD protocol, check your Windows firewall settings and make sure that file and printer sharing is enabled. "To learn more about this issue, open Help and Support and search for Enable file and printer sharing". If you're using another firewall, see the information that was included with your firewall. Which of the following is a computer system or an application service that acts as an intermediary between a network host and the Internet?A proxy server is a dedicated computer or a software system running on a computer that acts as an intermediary between an endpoint device, such as a computer, and another server from which a user or client is requesting a service.
Which of the following enables interaction between an operating system and hardware?The main purpose of device driver – it acts as a translator between the hardware device and operating systems or applications that use it.
Which of the command line utilities listed below allows to test the reachability of a host across an IP network?50 Cards in this Set. |