Windows 8 In Depth

Connecting Just Two Computers

If you’re making a network of just two computers (say, to copy files from an old to a new computer), you might be able to take a shortcut and eliminate the need for a network switch or additional special hardware. If you want to add on to your network later, you can always add the extra gear then.

Note

Microsoft is encouraging the use of a special USB cable for use by the Windows Easy Transfer program, for people who don’t have a network. However, you can just as easily (and much less expensively) use an Ethernet crossover cable.

If you are connecting two computers, simply run a special cable called an Ethernet ...