Windows Vista offers new features for connecting (networking) multiple computers. When computers are networked, you can share data, printers, and an Internet connection. If you plan to add a new Vista PC to your network, or if you already have, there are a few new features you’ll want to explore:
* Network and Sharing Center – A place where you can manage network connections, options for sharing data, view networked computers and devices, and diagnose and repair broken connections.
* Network (from the Start menu) – A window that allows you to access computers on your network and the Network and Sharing Center. You can also add printers and wireless devices here.
* Network Map – This map details each of your network connections graphically, and allows you to differentiate among wired, wireless, and Internet connections.
* Network Setup Wizard – Use this wizard to create a network. You can also tell Vista you want to allow (or block) folder and printer sharing.
Vista continually searches for new networks. When you connect a Vista PC to a wired network or get within range of a wireless one (and you have wireless hardware installed in your computer), Vista will find it and ask you what kind of network it is. It’s either public or private. A public network is a network found in a coffee shop, library or hotel, and a private network is a network you manage, like the one already in your home office. When a network is accessible, the Set Network Location wizard will appear. [See Image 1]
There are three network options:
Home – Choose this if the network is your home network or a network you trust.
Work – Choose this if you are connecting to a network at work.
Public location – Choose this if the network you want to connect to is open to anyone within range of it, like networks in coffee shops, airports, and libraries.
To add Vista to an Existing Network:
1. Connect physically to a wired network using an Ethernet cable or, if you have wireless hardware installed in your PC, get within range of a wireless network.
2. Select home, Work, or Public Location. (If necessary input credentials.)
3. You will be prompted that the network was set up. [See Image 2]
