Connect two computers together

Connecting two computers together to form a mini network takes just a few steps. In this practical tip, we will show you how the connection works.

Connect two computers using a network cable

If both PCs have a built-in network card, you can connect the computers with each other using a LAN cable.
Then open the Control Panel on one of the computers and select "Network and Sharing Center".
Then click on "Change adapter settings" and then on "Local Area Connection".
In the "Local Area Connection Properties" menu, double-click on "Internet Protocol (Version 4 TCP / Pv 4)".
In the following menu it is important that the same IP address is entered for both computers, only the last digit is different. For example, enter the IP address 192.168.2.1 for the first computer and the IP address 192.168.2.2 for the other.
Enter "255.255.255.0" under Subnet mask and then confirm your entry with "OK".
Finally, you should release the files to be shared in the "home network group".

If you prefer a wireless network, simply connect the two computers via WLAN.

Newer computers already have a corresponding WLAN module, older computers can easily be upgraded with a WLAN stick. You also need a router.
After you have set up the hardware accordingly, you will see a network symbol at the bottom of the taskbar.
First click on the network symbol and in the menu that appears, your router.
In the "Connect to the network" menu, enter the WLAN password in the "Security key" field. This is usually on the router. If you have forgotten your password, this practical tip will help you.
After you have entered the password and confirmed it with "OK", your small network is created.
Finally, you should decide which files to share.
To do this, first go to "Control Panel" and then to "Network and Internet".
Then make the appropriate settings in the "Home network group".

Alternatively, you can also connect two computers to each other using a USB cable.