The Network Setup Wizard includes a checklist and steps to guide you through the process of sharing resources, such as files, printers, or an Internet connection, between computers in a home or small office. In Windows XP, Microsoft has improved the online documentation and usability of operating-system tools for setting up a home or small office network. New features in the operating system include support for the Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet (PPPoE) and a built-in firewall.
The Home Network Wizard first appeared in Windows Me. To make setting up a home or small office network easier, Microsoft developed an enhanced Network Setup Wizard for Windows XP. This version provides more complete online documentation and support for setting up a home or small office network. The new wizard automatically enables the personal firewall discussed later in this section (see "Internet Connection Firewall").
To use the wizard, perform the following steps:
Click Start, point to All Programs—> Accessories—>
Communications, and click Network Setup Wizard.
When the welcome screen appears, click Next>.
Click checklist for creating a network.
The checklist leads you through the steps necessary to set up a home or small office network and provides extensive references for each step. When you have completed the necessary connections and preparations, return to the Network Setup Wizard.
Select the Internet connection method and click Next>.
Select the Internet connection and click Next>.
Type a description of the computer and a computer name, and then
click Next>.
Review the network settings and click Next> to finish the setup.
When the setup process is complete, click Finish to close the wizard.
