How to create a home network

If you have more than one computer in your home you can set up a network to connect all the devices with each other and share files.

Before you can set up your wireless network, here’s what you’ll need:

Before you start setting up a local network, make sure you have the following hardware:

• Wireless network interface card (NIC) or an on-the-motherboard wireless network port for each computer.
• Confirm the computer has a wireless network antenna. The antenna might be a part of internal networking hardware, or the antenna might be external and should be connected to the back of the computer.
• Wireless router or access point. If you need a network hub, consult with a network specialist at your local computer store to determine a hub that meets your needs.

Disconnect internet and firewall 

• Disconnect from the Internet. If you have a DSL or cable modem, disconnect it.
• Disable any firewall software. Firewall software might interfere with network setup. You can enable the firewall after network setup is complete.

Setting up network 

1. In Windows 10, select Start , then select Settings > Network & Internet  > Status > Network and Sharing Center.

2. Select Set up a new connection or network.

3. Select Set up a new network, then choose Next, and then follow the on-screen instructions to set up a wireless network. When the network setup is complete, continue to the next step to connect to the network.

Connect to network

1. Select the Network or icon in the notification area.

2. In the list of networks, choose the network that you want to connect to, and then select Connect.

3. Type the security key (often called the password).

4. Follow additional instructions if there are any.

Turn on network discovery and file and printer sharing on a local network

1. right-click the Network connection icon in the system tray.

2. Click Open Network and Internet Settings.

3. On the network status page, scroll down and click Network and Sharing Center. 

4. In the left pane, click Change advanced sharing settings.

5. Select both Turn on network discovery and Turn on file and printer sharing in the sharing profile you want to change.

Now test your connection 

1. In the Windows search box, search for View network computers and devices.

The Network window opens and displays computers and devices detected on the network

 

2. Double-click the name of the computer or device you want to access. If prompted, enter the username and password to connect to the computer or device.

• If the computer can read and access files from a remote computer, the remote computer or device is set up correctly. Browse to every available computer or device from each computer on the network. If there are any issues, repeat these steps and confirm that the settings are correct

Enable internet access and firewall 

Finally, after you confirm that your home network is capable of transferring files, connect and enable Internet connections for computers with Internet access. Then, enable the firewall for all computers.