Computer Basics Absolute Beginner’s Guide, Windows® 8.1 Edition, Seventh Edition

11. Setting Up a Home Network

In This Chapter

• How Networks Work

• Setting Up a Wireless Network

• Connecting Your Computer to Your New Network

• Adding Your Computer to a HomeGroup

• Accessing Computers on Your Network

When you need to connect two or more computers, you need to create a computer network.

Why would you want to connect two computers? Maybe you want to transfer files or digital photos from one computer to another. Maybe you want to share an expensive piece of hardware (such as a printer) instead of buying one for each PC. Maybe you want to connect all your computers to the same Internet connection. Or maybe you want to play networked computer games with another player in your household. Whatever your reasons, it’s easy to set ...