How to connect a computer to a computer via the Internet, USB, cable, Wi-Fi

The first thing you need to start with is connecting the system unit to the power supply. For this, a special network cable is used.

The power supply is equipped with a power on/off button - move it to the off position and connect the power cable, but do not rush to insert the plug into the outlet.

Attention!!! All subsequent actions are performed when the system unit is completely disconnected from the network.

A wide range of external devices can be connected to the system unit, but their number is limited by the interface connectors of the motherboard. Although, this limitation can be circumvented.

To begin with, let's look at the options for connecting a standard set of computer peripherals:

keyboard and mouse;
monitor;
audio devices: speakers, headphones;
other input/input devices: scanner, printer, MFP, webcam.

And also, don’t forget about connecting the Internet cable to the system unit.

Purpose and methods of connecting a computer to a computer

The connection of two PCs is used to provide the Internet to the second PC using the means of the first. Also for playing together online. But more often, pairing is necessary to transfer a large amount of data.

There are 5 ways to connect two PCs:

Using a LAN cable.
Wi-Fi networks
Using a USB connector.
Via the Internet - cloud storage.
Connecting a wireless disk.

The option with a LAN cable is suitable for pairing a PC and a laptop, two PCs or two laptops. The connection requires a twisted pair cable, with compression for reverse data transmission. A straight cable used to connect a PC and a router will not work due to the different locations of the last pair of wires. Therefore, when purchasing a cable of the required length or compression, you should clarify the purpose - for connecting computers.

Pairing via Wi Fi is designed to connect two or more laptops with built-in modules. To connect a PC, you need a Wi-Fi adapter built into the motherboard or connected via a USB interface.

The connection via a USB connector is similar to the method with a LAN cable, but is not made through the network connector of the motherboard. This method is fraught with connection difficulties, since a regular USB cable will not work. A cord with an additional controller is required to allow control.

The Internet method involves connecting a cloud drive on two or more computers. It is enough to install the cloud service client, enable automatic synchronization and send files, after which the information will appear on other PCs. This is the simplest and most affordable option if you only need to transfer files.

A disk with a wireless connection is similar to a cloud service, but instead of virtual media, it uses physical media connected to the router. The data is transferred to the drive, after which it is available for downloading and viewing on other PCs. This method allows you to exchange information at high speed and without the Internet. In this case, it is necessary to purchase additional equipment and memory storage.

Connecting audio devices to the system unit

To connect speakers or headphones to the system unit, a special audio interface on the motherboard is used. Depending on the sound circuit (2.x, 3.1, 4.x, 5.x, 6.1 and 7.1), an audio panel with 3 or 6 sockets is installed on the motherboard.

To avoid confusion when connecting audio systems, use special color markings for inputs and outputs :

pink - microphone;
green - headphones or front speakers (in 4-, 6- or 8-channel format);
blue - linear audio input;
gray - side speakers (in an 8-channel system);
black - rear speakers (in 4-, 6- or 8-channel acoustics);
orange - low-frequency output for the central speaker (subwoofer).

Instructions for connecting two computers using a LAN cable

We connect both PCs with a cable.

On the first machine, go to the “Network Control Center”.

In the properties of the local connection, look for the line with TCP/IPv4, where we set the address - 192.168.1.1 and the mask 255.255.255.0.

We perform similar actions on the second PC, but change the address to 192.168.1.2, the mask remains unchanged.

After this, one and the second device are available in the network environment.

Advantages:

Easy to set up.
No additional equipment required.
No internet needed.

Flaws:

A reverse crimp cable is required.
The connection range is affected by the cable length.
The network port is busy.
Only two computers are connected at the same time.

Setting up a direct connection

Here we will talk about directly connecting a twisted pair cable to a computer.

There are several ways to turn on the Internet on a Windows computer. Much depends on the version of the operating system, but now this is no longer so relevant. Most users have switched to “tens”, so installation will be easy. Much depends on the provider: it can provide work using different protocols, and the settings for them are different. So the first thing you should do is decide which protocol you are using.

Selecting a connection protocol

You won't be able to guess the correct type of Internet connection. They are all configured slightly differently, so simply brute-force will not solve anything. You need to go to the official website of your provider and read the instructions, or contact technical support by phone and clarify this issue with them. Usually all the necessary data is in the contract with the Internet provider. After you find out the protocol type, all that remains is to go to the desired section and configure it.

Static or dynamic ip

A static IP address is issued once and does not change again. It is very convenient and extremely necessary if you need to organize a server or constant access from the Internet to your home network. Usually you also have to pay extra for it, so it is rarely issued.

Setting up with a static IP is quite simple:

Right-click on the computer icon next to the clock and select “Network and Internet settings.”
In the window that opens, click on “Network and Sharing Center”; for other versions of Windows, go to . Next, select “Change adapter settings.”
Right-click on the active connection and select Properties.
Double-click on “IP version 4 (TCP/IPv4)”.
Now enter the data that the provider gave you when concluding the contract. The DNS server may not provide it, you can leave the automatic connection or enter Google 8.8.8.8.
Read also: Microsoft Teredo tunnel adapter: what is it and why is it needed?

Dynamic IP address - in this case, the IP address of your PC is assigned automatically. Every time you reboot the device, it usually changes. This option was very common in the past, and is still common today.

The dynamic address is not far removed from its brother. There is no need to enter any data here; on the contrary, leave everything as it is. In fact, the Internet should turn on immediately after plugging in the wire and starting the computer.

PPPoE

The most commonly used protocol.

The PPPoE (point-to-point) protocol is supported by all devices, reliable and easy to configure:

Open Network and Sharing Center. You can do this through “Start” or “Control Panel”. Here select the line “Create and configure a new connection or network.”
Select the "Connect to the Internet" option and click the "Next" button.
In the new window, click on “High-speed with PPPOE”.
Then all you have to do is enter the login and password issued by the provider. That's it, setting up a PPPoE connection in Windows is complete.

L2TP

This is a layer 2 tunneling protocol. It is not used very often in home networks, but is often used by organizations. Allows you to create a connection channel over existing networks.

The setup is done as follows:

Go to Network and Sharing Center.
Click on the “Create and configure a new connection or network” section. Select "Connect to a workstation".
In the window, select the “Use my Internet connection (VPN)” option.
Enter the server address in the “Internet address” line and check the required boxes. Next, click on the “Create” button.
Now go to “Network Connections”. Select the created connection and right-click on it, then “Properties”.
First, go to the “Security” item. Open “VPN Type” and select “L2TP Protocol with IPsec” here. In the “Data Encryption” section, select “Optional”. Now go to “Advanced settings” and in the line “Use a shared key for authentication” write the given password.

By the way, in the properties section, in the top line, you can change the connection name. This is useful if you have several connections that should not be confused.

VPN

Creating VPN tunnels is one of the most reliable ways to protect your connection. A minimum number of people will have access to information about network connections and visited sites.

Setting up on the “ten” goes like this:

Click the network icon next to the clock and go to Network and Internet settings.
In the left column, select “VPN”, and then click on + “Add VPN connection”.
A new window will appear in which you need to enter the data that you were given to connect.

In order to connect, you will need to click on the network icon again and select the created connection.

Instructions for connecting two computers using Wi-Fi

Go to “Network Control Center”.

In the next window we configure a new connection.

After the setup wizard appears, select “Set up a computer-to-computer wireless network” from the options offered.

Next, a new window will appear where you need to enter: the name and password for the network. Then check the appropriate box to save the network.

In the “Change additional sharing settings” item, activate the parameters shown in the image.

Next, we connect the second laptop or computer to the created Wi-Fi network.

Advantages:

Ability to connect more than one PC/laptop.
No network cable required.
Free LAN port.
Not a difficult setup.

Flaws:

To pair with a PC, you need a Wi-Fi module built into the motherboard or connected via a USB port.

Connecting the monitor to the system unit

The monitor can be connected to both a video card and a motherboard. The latter must have built-in graphics or support work with the integrated graphics core of the processor. Regardless of the method of connecting the monitor to the system unit, the connectors and cables will be identical.

Currently, the following video connectors :

VGA (D-SUB) - analog connector (obsolete);
DVI-I - digital connector with the ability to transmit analog signals - when using a DVI-I/D-SUB adapter, the ability to connect VGA monitors is retained;
DVI-D is a strictly digital connector - does not support DVI/VGA adapters;
HDMI is a digital connector for transmitting high-definition video data with copy protection - suitable for connecting the system unit to a TV;
DisplayPort - a modern digital connector for connecting monitors to the system unit - supports high resolutions with high frame rates - up to 240 Hz for 1-4K, up to 120 Hz for 5K and 60 Hz for 8K.

Instructions on how to connect a computer to a computer via USB

You must purchase the appropriate cable. On Chinese trading platforms there are offers from 7 USD and above. Cable length – 1.5 meters. However, you should not count on the 480 MB/s speed indicated in the description. The maximum value is 13-15 MB, in offers with a higher cost, the speed may be higher.

If you have a driver disk, you will need to perform a manual installation. Most often, the drivers are located in the cable adapter, and installation is performed automatically the first time you connect.

After connecting the two PCs and installing the drivers, a new removable disk will appear in the “My Computer” section. You need to open it on each computer one by one. Move files in the file manager that appears.

Advantages:

Automatic driver installation and file transfer utility.

Flaws:

The need to purchase a specific cable.
You need to wait 2-5 weeks if purchasing from a foreign store.
Low data transfer speed – 13-15 MB.
Possibility to connect only two computers.

Processor connection

In order to power the CPU, a voltage of 12 volts is supplied through a four-pin connector. For powerful processors, a collapsible plug is sometimes used, which also has 4 additional pins (denoted as 4 + 4). There is also only one such slot on the motherboard, as well as the corresponding wire on the system unit.

It should be connected in the same way as the “female” - carefully press it into the socket until the latch clicks. It is removed in a similar way - we press on the latch, releasing the bracket, and carefully remove the wire.

If the design of the motherboard and case allows, you can connect the power supply to the processor even before installing the main board in order to run a wire behind it and thereby free up some space in the case in front of the motherboard.

In addition, some power supplies, for example, 500w from Chieftec, may have a similar plug for powering the video card. It is difficult to confuse it with a cable from the processor, since it has at least 6 pins, and it is physically impossible to insert it into the wrong port.

Instructions on how to connect a computer to a computer via the Internet

Register in one or more cloud services. The capabilities, advantages and disadvantages of popular cloud storage services are described in several collections of articles .
Download and install the client on each PC.
Enter your account login and password.
Set the synchronization folder.
Make sure automatic synchronization is active.
After placing the files in the synchronization folder, the information will appear on other PCs. Download time is affected by Internet bandwidth. High speed requires less time.

Cable connection options

There are several simple methods that require the appropriate cables and connectors.

HDMI

Today, HDMI is the standard for transmitting digital audio and video between devices. It is found in all modern TVs and PCs. If your computer is equipped with this type of port, pairing it with the appropriate cable will not be difficult.

In this case, it is worth paying attention to the version. If you need to connect to a TV with 4K resolution, the connector version must be at least 1.4a. This will allow you to get a high-quality picture. If the PC is equipped with a port version prior to 1.4a, then it will not be possible to achieve UltraHD resolution.

Several steps need to be taken:

Turn on both devices.
Connect the cable to the PC, and its other end to the TV.
Using the remote control, set HDMI as the signal source on the TV. If the equipment is equipped with several connectors, it is important to check the port number (it will be marked with a number) to which the cable is connected.
Once connected correctly, the image from the laptop monitor should automatically be displayed on the TV screen.

Micro or mini HDMI

Some laptops, including netbooks, have a smaller connector, such as micro or mini HDMI, instead of the standard one. The easiest way here is to buy a cable with two different ends.

Another option is to use an adapter. It is a connector consisting of two parts - with mini / micro and standard HDMI. The connection method using an adapter is the same:

Enable devices.
Connect one end of the HDMI cable to the TV and the other to the adapter.
Insert the adapter plug into the non-standard HDMI input of the laptop.
Set HDMI as the signal source on the TV.
The image will automatically appear on the screen.

DVI or VGA

When HDMI is not available, you can establish a connection using analog cables. However, they provide only average image quality, and for sound transmission you will need a jack-jack cable:

Both devices must be turned on. If they have the same input, just connect one end to the TV and the other to the laptop.
To transmit audio, connect one end of a 3.5mm jack-to-jack cable to the audio input on your TV and the other end to the headphone jack on your laptop.

If only one device has VGA or DVI, and the other has an HDMI input, then you will need to use a converter. For this:

Insert the end of the HDMI converter cable into the connector on a device that supports this standard.
Connect the VGA/DVI cable to the equipment without an HDMI input and the other end to the connector on the converter.

Instructions on how to connect a computer to a computer using a wireless drive

To organize a wireless connection, you must purchase additional equipment. Below are three options, with different capabilities and connection types:

A router with a USB port and an HDD drive.
Hard drive – HDD, with a built-in battery and Wi-Fi module.
Wireless card reader with Wi-Fi module and USB later.

The option with a router is preferable if the computers are located at a distance that is not reachable by the Wi-Fi network. In this case, the connection is made through the LAN port. Also, a stationary connection allows the user to determine the type and format of the connected drive: USB flash drive, HDD and SSD; 2.5 or 3.5 inches.

A wireless drive, such as the Seagate Wireless Plus, contains only a 2.5-inch HDD drive and a Wi-Fi module inside. When external power is connected, it works as an access point with a disk array. The Silicon Power Sky Share H10 version also includes a 2600 mAh battery, which allows up to 5 hours of battery life. The best option if you move frequently, or if the computers are located at close range. The type and model of the drive is determined solely by the manufacturer.

Connecting a keyboard and mouse to the system unit

There are two options for connecting a keyboard and mouse - for this, two types of interface connectors are used - USB and PS / 2 (obsolete).

The PS/2 connector is color coded:

purple - used to connect a keyboard,
green - for connecting a mouse.

There is also a universal PS/2 interface, you can connect a keyboard or mouse to it.

In any case, it is better to use the USB interface, which is designed so that when you connect a keyboard/mouse, the device is activated automatically, while connecting to the PS/2 connector requires restarting the computer.

USB ports are also color coded ; they indicate the version of the USB interface:

black - USB 2.0,
blue , red or yellow - USB 3.x.

FAQ

How to connect a computer to a computer

You can network both computers to share files. For example, play video or music on the first computer, and store files on the second.

How to connect two Windows 10 computers?

Connect both computers using a local network. To do this, both computers must be connected with a patch cord. Create a local network on the main computer, and connect to the created local network on the second computer.

What can I do with 2 computers?

Play media files on a second PC. You can also exchange data between PCs via cable. Often a second computer is used for video rendering or calculations. The project is assembled on the first computer, and then the calculations are made on the second. At this time, the power of the first computer cannot be used for other tasks.

Is it possible to combine processors?

Yes, if the motherboard has two or more processors installed. This combination improves performance, which is useful for complex calculations or servers. Moreover, for successful operation it is often necessary to install two identical processors.

Is it possible to connect 2 computers via USB?

Yes, provided you use a specialized cable. Typically, such a cable is labeled “Windows Easy Transfer Cable” on sale.

How to connect a computer to a computer wirelessly?

You need to connect both computers to the router. Then create a local network on the main PC, and then connect the second PC in the local connection settings.

What can a 10 year old computer do?

Perform tasks that were relevant 10 years ago. For example, playing games of that time, working in programs, watching videos or listening to music. If a 10-year-old computer has powerful components installed, that PC can handle certain modern tasks.

Is a 10 year old computer still good?

For certain tasks, a 10-year-old PC is quite suitable. For example, run low-resource games and applications. Or watch local and streaming videos. If you update some components, certain PCs will be able to meet modern requirements.

Can I connect two laptops via HDMI?

No, because laptops do not have an HDMI port for receiving data. As an alternative, you can use a capture card. In this case, the image will be captured on one laptop and displayed on the screen of the second.

How to connect two computers without a local network?

If both PCs are equipped with a Wi-Fi module, you should use a computer-to-computer wireless connection to connect. To do this, open the “Network and Sharing Center” section. Next, select “new connection”, “Computer-Computer” method and follow the instructions of the setup program.

How to connect two computers with an Ethernet cable for gaming?

Is a crossover cable needed to connect two computers?

Yes, a crossover cable is required.

How can I connect two computers via WIFI?

If both PCs are equipped with a Wi-Fi module, then use a computer-to-computer wireless connection. Otherwise, connect both PCs to the Wi-Fi router and connect using a local network.

How to connect two computers wirelessly without the Internet?

Use a “Computer-Computer” connection if both PCs are equipped with a Wi-Fi module. Or connect both PCs to one Wi-Fi router for a local network connection.

Connection features

The best way to connect to a network is to use a host computer that is on (24/7) to provide the network. This type of PC has long been a router, and it is best used to connect two or more PCs.

There is also an option in which the computer is connected via a computer. That is, the first PC acts as the master, and the second – as the slave.

You can connect devices:

Wired.
Wirelessly.

You can use your PC to access files on another device:

TCP/IP.
FTP.
SSH is a protocol designed more for secure remote management within an insecure network.

Further instructions will tell you how to connect your computer over the network and share files for reading and writing over the network. Let's consider possible ways to physically establish communication between devices.

Conclusion

The preferred connection type is influenced by the number of PCs in the group, distance and assigned tasks. A LAN cable connection is suitable for two remote computers. A Wi-Fi network will help if there are several cars and the location does not exceed 10 meters. The USB connector is only optimal if the network port is not working or is being used for another connection. To combine several remote computers, cloud storage is suitable. And organizing a wireless data storage will prevent Internet dependence and will also allow you to transfer large volumes of data.

If you still have questions, then in the block below “User Comments” you can leave a comment to the author or share your experience. We will try to answer.

How to install a processor on a computer?

To install the processor correctly, it is important to understand the structure of its installation. The meaning is this: there is a certain structure called a socket. The processor itself is placed in this structure. The entire socket must match the shape of the processor, so you should be careful when purchasing a processor to avoid the socket not matching the processor. The socket has legs on which the processor is placed. A radiator and cooler are placed on top of this entire structure.

While the computer is running, the processor heats up, so the cooler and radiator act as a cooler to maintain a normal temperature for the processor and prevent it from overheating.

If the cooling device does not work properly, the processor may simply burn out.

The radiator is made of metal. It is closely adjacent to the processor, as a result of which it transfers heat to the radiator, and it is cooled by the cooler.

Installing a processor also requires you to have thermal paste, experience in installing detailed devices, and a technical mind. Thermal paste is needed to fill the gap between the heatsink and the processor.

Thanks to it, the heat transfer of the radiator and the processor improves and the degree of cooling of the processor increases.

Turning on the computer and installing Windows

Then there are two options, either Windows is pre-installed on your computer and you just have to start the computer, wait a little while everything starts up and see a desktop ready for use in front of you. Or Windows is not installed on your new computer and then you need to do it yourself. Read about how to install Windows in our separate article at the link below.

How to install/reinstall clean Windows 7