Build your network

Install a NIC in each of your PCs that will be on the network. Follow the instructions to get one PC connected (see the menu at the left) to install the NICs. Connect each PC to the router or switch. The Link lights on both the PC and the router or switch should light when the cable is connected but the network will not be functional yet.

Initially you should set up 2 PCs with manually assigned IP addresses.
If you are using a software gateway you will need to install an extra NIC in that PC.

Right click on Network Neighborhood and select Properties. Click on the Configuration tab. You should see a screen similar to the one at the lower right. You should see TCP/IP installed for your NIC.

To share files and printers

If you are going to share files and printers continue here, otherwise go to the next section, Configuring Your Gateway.

To share files and printers you should add a 2nd protocol to protect your network from the Internet. You can use NetBEUI or IPX.

Click Add to add a protocol.
Choose Microsoft.
Choose NetBEUI or IPX.
Click Add and add a Client.
Choose Client for Microsoft Networks.
Click OK.
Note: If you are mixing versions of Windows on the network then you should use NetBEUI, not IPX.

Add the Microsoft networking client and allow file sharing.

Select Client for Microsoft Networks as your primary network logon.
Click File and Print Sharing.
Click on NetBEUI or IPX for your NIC.
Click on the Bindings tab.
Check both the Client and File and Printer Sharing boxes.
Click OK.

Configure your gateway

Configure the TCP/IP Protocol for your NIC, as before, with WINS and DNS disabled.

Click on the Gateway tab.
Enter 192.168.1.1 in the field and click Add.
You should now see 192.168.1.1 in the Installed Gateways list.

Ensure IP sharing is turned off

Click on TCP/IP for your NIC.
Click on the Bindings tab.
Uncheck both the Client and File and Printer Sharing boxes.
Click OK.