Annoying problem networking 2 pcs

[wickedmonkey]

First off happy new year everyone!

now to buisness - i have two similar pcs and i want to network them together simply to play games i have 1 20m netwoprk cable and an i dentical network card in each pc but both compuiters fail to recognise that the cable is plugged in and both say "a network cable is unplugged". netwoking is not my forte so if someone could give me a dummed down (but not too much) explanation on how to resolve this and set the network up id be grateful

[DrZaius]

Hi wickedmonkey,

If you're connecting the systems directly, NIC to NIC, then you need to use a crossover cable. A regular patch cable will only work if you connect both systems to a hub or switch. Hope that helps.

[Preston]

I had a difficult time getting my two PC to talk with a crossover cable...Installing NETBEUI was the fix for me.

[wickedmonkey]

No, I do have a crossover cable - ive made sure of that Im thinking its just a case of windows being its usual stupid self as it is now working fine on the one pc but still wont work on the other one, so any help is still very welcome

[snakeyes]

WickedMonkey,

On the system that is not getting a "Network plug connection" does it recognize the NIC properly in Device mgr? Also make sure it is seated securly in it's slot. Whcih I am sure it is, but it never hurts to re-check. Also make sure you see a link light in the back of the computer where the network cable is plugged into. Check these items and get back w/ PCMECH

~Snakeyes