Gateway EC14, User Manual

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CHAPTER 5: Networking Your Notebook
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5 If your computer does not already have a name, type a unique computer name
in the Computer name box. This name identifies the computer to other users
on the network. Use a computer name of up to 15 characters with no blank
spaces. Each computer name must be unique on your network. All-numeric
computer names are not allowed. Names must contain some letters.
6 Type a name for your workgroup in the Workgroup box. Use a workgroup name
of up to 15 characters with no blank spaces. The workgroup name must be the
same for all computers in your network workgroup, and the name must be
different than any computer name on your network.
7 Click OK. When you are prompted to restart your computer, click Restart Now.
Configuring the TCP/IP protocol
A networking protocol is a language computers use to talk to each other. One of
several available protocols must be set up on each computer you plan to use on your
network. We recommend you use the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol
(TCP/IP), which is widely accepted and compatible for local area networks (LANs), as
well as for Internet communications.
When networking is set up in Windows Vista™, TCP/IP is automatically installed as
the default protocol.
Using a DHCP server
In order to use the TCP/IP protocol on a computer with a router or access point router,
the protocol must be set to “Obtain an IP address from a DHCP server.” This is typically
preset when you receive your computer.
Configuring your router
After you have named your computers and set up TCP/IP on them, you can configure
your router using your Web browser. For instructions, see your router’s
documentation.
Connecting to a wireless Ethernet network
Connecting to your network
After you have named your computer and workgroup, you need to set up the network
connection on your computer.
Important
Each computer on your network needs a unique Computer Name. All
the computers on your network need the same Workgroup Name. You may
have already named your computer and workgroup the first time you turned
on your computer.
Help
For more information about connecting to your network, click Start,
then click Help and Support. Type the following keywords in the Search Help
box, then press E
NTER
.
• Connect to an available network
• Manually add a wireless Ethernet network
• Connecting to wireless Ethernet network.