I've tried to create a direct computer to computer ( no hub or switch ) ethernet cable network between the main computer which is a Windows XP to a Windows Vista. The connection is never successful. Each time I get " Cable is not connected ( which they are and in good condition )" :confused. Any suggestion on what I might not being right?

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Originally Posted by christiansoldie

I've tried to create a direct computer to computer ( no hub or switch ) ethernet cable network between the main computer which is a Windows XP to a Windows Vista. The connection is never successful. Each time I get " Cable is not connected ( which they are and in good condition )" :confused. Any suggestion on what I might not being right?

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You need to use a special cable, a "cross-over cable" to do this without going through a hub.

You should get a link light. If you do, an xofer cable is not necesssary. If you don't then it is.

You can set each machine to get it's address from DHCP and it will get one with a 254 in it somewhere.

Find the IP address via "ipconfig /all" from the cmd prompt. Can't say how to do that in Vista and ping the corresponding address.

Some computers are funky. You may need to connect the cable and re-boot each machine although ipconfig /renew may work.

DHCP may be easier than assigning addresses unless this is a permanent connection.

Computers must be in the same work group and firewalls must be opened up.

In all honesty, a simple $5 crossover cable is the way to go for this type of connection