Are you tired of sneakernet? You know, copying the information you need onto a floppy or zip disk and running it from one machine to the other. If you find yourself doing it often, or sending files via email or other online transfer method, perhaps you should consider setting up a network.

The parts you will need aren’t as expensive as they used to be. The type of network you’ll be setting up is called a LAN or local area network. Larger networks where the computers are not located in the same building are called WAN’s or wide area networks. To set up a LAN, each computer will need a network interface card (NIC) installed. The type you need depends on what slots you have available. Older systems use ISA, while newer ones usually take PCI. For laptops you’ll probably need PCMCIA (also called PC card interface) or for a quick hookup on any newer unit, you might try USB. You’ll need to set up the driver software for the card so the operating system will recognize it. Make sure the card you choose has drivers available for the OS software you are using.

Once the cards are installed, you’ll need to connect the computers together. Two systems can talk with just a special crossover cable. Three or more will require a hub or switch as well. A hub has several connectors to plug cables in, one for each machine. A switch does the same job as a hub, only faster (and they cost a little more).

Setting up the operating system for networking is the most difficult part, as each computer needs protocols, and addresses to see each other. Protocols allow the computers on the network to communicate by using a predefined set of rules and signals. Addresses are numbers assigned to each computer and component on the network so these components can find each other. If you’re not very computer literate you may want your favorite professional to set this up for you.

Once your network is complete, you will be able to share resources between the various systems, including printers, plotters, and modems. Yes, this means you can share the Internet connection as well, although at 56K this can be more of a detriment than an improvement. If you have a satellite Internet connection (or other faster connection hopefully in the near future) then sharing it with all networked systems is a great idea. This can be accomplished by using a router. There are also routers that work using dialup connections. By using several dialup modems in tandem (also called “shotgunning”) you can achieve higher speeds on ordinary telephone lines! But remember, you’ll need a separate phone line for each modem, as well as additional Internet accounts, which could get expensive.

Well, if you’re just not up to all this, what if you just want to share data simply between two systems? In Windows, you can use the built-in direct cable connection. All you need is a cable, which connects to the serial, parallel, or USB ports on both systems. Just plug it in, start the direct cable connection software on both systems, and you’re ready to transfer files. It’s not quite as efficient or as fast as a network but it will get the job done.

What’s next for networking? Soon we will see wireless networking becoming more affordable. Imagine sitting in bed with your laptop connected to the network via a wireless networking card!

Give your feet a rest. Let your new network do the running for you.