How to Network Two Windows 95/98 Computers
Last updated: 1/17/2000

INSTALL THE NETWORKING SOFTWARE

  Display the Network Control Panel.  Click Start, Settings, Control Panel, and double click the Network icon.  You should see something like this...

There may be fewer or more network components installed.  This example is from a computer with a new Windows 98 installation (not Second Edition), a dial-up adapter (network interface to the MODEM) and the TCP/IP protocol which were installed earlier for the Internet, and a new D-Link DFE-530TX network adapter which was just installed.  Windows automatically bound (associated) the TCP/IP protocol to the network adapter when the network adapter was installed.  That is, the protocol is loaded with the adapter and can be used by the adapter.

  Add the NetBEUI protocol.  In the above window, click the Add... button.  In this window double-click Protocol.

Highlight Microsoft (window to the right) and double-click the NetBEUI icon.  You will end-up with a network component list looking something like the next window.

  Remove unnecessary protocols... There may be even more stuff listed and usually more stuff than you need.  The rule is, if you don't need it, remove it.  By doing so, you reduce network overhead and make the network more efficient and less vulnerable to intruders (you can always reinstall a protocol).

First, if you are not going to use TCP/IP on your LAN to share an Internet connection, etc., use the remove button to delete it from the list where it is bound (listed with) the network adapter.  Do not remove it from your Dial-Up adapter.  Likewise, remove NetBEUI from the Dial-Up connector.  If IPX/SPX is installed, and you don't need it, remove all instances of it.   You may also see the Microsoft Family Login Client.  I usually remove that as well.

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