Add a Windows XP-based computer to your network
Published: August 15, 2006 | Updated: October 27, 2006
Microsoft Windows XP was designed to make it easy to connect computers together and to give you access to everything the Internet has to offer, while still keeping your computer as safe as possible from potential threats.
After you add your computer to your home network, you'll be able to print to a printer on your home network (the printer will no longer need to be attached directly to your computer) and access the other computers and devices connected to your home network. You'll be able to share files, which means you can get data from any computer you connect to the network. You can even share one Internet connection among all your computers.
It's easy to connect a Windows XP computer to other computers and to the Internet, but before you do, consider taking some steps to further improve the security of your computer and the privacy of your data:
| • | Join Microsoft Windows Live OneCare, a subscription service from Microsoft that automatically protects your computer from most Internet threats using antivirus, antispyware, and firewall software. If you aren't sure what these terms mean, OneCare is perfect for you, because it requires no technical knowledge to use. In addition, it automatically takes care of the following three items: |
| • | Visit Microsoft Update and install all critical updates and service packs. |
| • | Install antivirus software. |
| • | Install Windows Defender or other spyware-fighting software. |
If you don't have Internet access before you add your computer to the network, you should install the previously mentioned security software immediately after connecting to the Internet.
To connect to the Internet, follow these steps (which may vary slightly, depending on the software required for your network adapter)
1. | Shut down your computer and install your network adapter. Note: If you are installing a USB (Universal Serial Bus), CardBus, or CF card network adapter, you do not need to shut down your computer before installing the network adapter. |
2. | Start Windows, and log on as an administrator. |
3. | The Found New Hardware Wizard will appear. Click Yes, now and every time I connect a device. Then click Next.. 
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4. | The Found New Hardware Wizard asks you how you would like to find your driver. The driver is software Windows needs to communicate with your network adapter. Typically, it is included on the CD-ROM that came with your network adapter. Insert the floppy disk or CD-ROM, and then click Next.
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5. | If prompted, click Continue anyway. Software that does not have a digital signature has not been officially tested by Microsoft. However, it's usually okay.
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6. | Windows XP copies the needed files and installs the software for your network adapter. On the final page, click Finish.
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7. | If prompted, click Yes to restart your computer. After your computer restarts, log on normally. |
If you are connecting to a wired network, you are ready to use the Internet. If you are connecting to a wireless network, read Set up a wireless network, or follow the instructions provided with your wireless network adapter to configure your wireless network connection.
