Windows 7 Connecting Two PCs via Crossover Cable for Shared USB Broadband Modem Access

Requirements:​

• Two PCs with Ethernet ports
• Crossover TP cable
• USB broadband modem
• Internet connection sharing software (if not natively available)

Steps to Connect and Share a USB Broadband Modem:​

• Connect the PCs with a Crossover TP Cable:
• Turn off both PCs.
• Connect one end of the crossover TP cable to the Ethernet port of PC 1 and the other end to the Ethernet port of PC 2.
• Configure IP Addresses:
• Assign static IP addresses to both PCs in the same subnet. For example:
• PC 1: IP Address - 192.168.0.1, Subnet Mask - 255.255.255.0
• PC 2: IP Address - 192.168.0.2, Subnet Mask - 255.255.255.0
• Set Up Internet Connection Sharing:
• On the PC with the USB broadband modem, enable Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) to share the internet connection.
• In the network settings, select the USB modem connection under "Shared" or "Shared by other computers."
• Configure Network Bridge:
• Create a network bridge on one of the PCs to allow both PCs to share the internet connection.
• Go to Network Connections, select both the Ethernet connection and the USB modem connection, right-click, and choose "Bridge Connections."
• Test the Connection:
• Once the bridge is set up, both PCs should be able to access the internet through the shared USB broadband modem.

Additional Notes:​

• Ensure that both PCs have the necessary drivers installed for the USB broadband modem and Ethernet adapters.
• If the PCs are running different operating systems, additional configuration may be required.
• Troubleshoot any connection issues by ensuring the Ethernet and USB connections are properly set up. By following these steps, you should be able to connect two PCs using a crossover TP cable and share a USB broadband modem for internet access. If you encounter any difficulties during the setup, feel free to ask for further assistance!