easy networking problem

Hello all, I have 2 computers. both with windows xp and nic cards. one is gateway essential 450 and the other is an 8400 dell. i have a comtrend ct-562 4 port modem. and i need to know if it is possible to make a network so that both are connected to the internet and so that i can access the other computer's files if i need to at all times?

 

Yep, you have a modem/router, so all you need to do is string the cables from each system to the LAN ports and you're networked. Have you connected the Comtrend ct-562 yet? What issues are you having?

 

i already have both up and running on the internet. but i not sure how or what to buttons to push that will allow me to access each file from the other computer. could someone explain it to me.

 

Well, you need to turn on file sharing on at least one of the machines, you probably want to set it up on both. You'll need to share a minimum of one folder. And you need to either allow guest access, or setup the exact same accounts with the exact same passwords on each box. Each machine must be in the same network workgroup and must have a different machine name. Once that's all setup correctly, you should be able to browse the shared folders.

HTH,

-Scott