Gateway GM5643E User Manual

Also see for 5648 - GT - 5026E: User guide

Contents

Gateway GM5643E User Manual Manual pdf 52 page image

CHAPTER 5: Networking Your Computer46Setting up wired Ethernet network hardwareMaking sure your broadband connection worksBefore you change anything about your home setup, make sure that your broadband connectionis working correctly. To test the connection, log onto the Internet using your current setup. Ifthe connection is not working, contact your Internet service provider.Installing Ethernet cards and driversAfter you have determined the type of Ethernet you are using for your network, you need toinstall Ethernet cards and drivers on the computers that do not have Ethernet already installed.To order wired or wireless Ethernet PCI or PC cards, visit the Accessories Store atwww.gateway.com.Use the documentation that comes with your Ethernet cards for instructions on installing thecard and any required drivers.Plug your Ethernet cable into your computer’s jack and the router or the cable or DSL modemat this point, if you have not already done so.Connecting network cablesWe recommend using category 5, unshielded, twisted-pair cable (approximately 1/4-inchdiameter with a thin outer-jacket, containing eight color-coded wires), and equipment compatiblewith this type of cable. This type of cable is equipped with RJ-45 connectors (like a large telephonejack connector, but with eight pins) on each end.Category 5 cables are available in two different types; straight-through cables, used to connectcomputers to a router, and crossover cables, used to connect two computers.To determine which type of cable you have, hold both ends of the cable with the connectorsfacing away from you and with the spring clip on the bottom. For straight-through cable, thewires on both connectors are attached to copper pins in the same order (same colors, left toright). For a crossover cable, the wires on each connector are attached to the copper pins in adifferent order (different colors, left to right).Setting up a network using a routerIf you are setting up a network for more than two computers and you will be connecting yournetwork to a high-speed Broadband Internet connection (cable or DSL modem), we recommendthe use of a router. A router lets you access the Internet connection from any network computer.The router can assign IP addresses to the computers on the network and can provide firewallprotection for your network as well.ImportantIf you do not have a broadband connection already installed, make the necessary arrangements with your ISP.Be sure to find out how soon after the installation the line will be activated.Broadband Internet settings differ from ISP to ISP. Before you begin setting up your network, you should contact yourISP for any specific instructions they have for setting up a network.