Show Me Microsoft Windows XP (2nd Edition)

You can set up a direct connection to another computer using your serial, parallel, or infrared port. An incoming direct connection allows you to connect to another computer to access files and to print documents on attached printers and network drives . Before you can set up a direct connection, you need to either connect the two computer together using a cable or line up the infrared ports. During the setup process, you specify the role of each computer, either host or guest, and select a connection method and which users you want to connect to your computer. When you are connected, Windows displays a connection icon in the notification area on the taskbar. You can point to the icon to display information about the connection or right-click the icon to disconnect, change properties, and perform other tasks .

Create a Direct Connection

Click the Start button, point to All Programs, point to Accessories, point to Communications, and then click New Connection Wizard.

Click Next to continue.

Click the Set Up An Advanced Connection option, and then click Next.

Click the Connect Directly To Another Computer option, and then click Next.

Click the Host or Guest option, and then click Next.

Specify a connection device, and then click Next.

Select the check boxes for the users who are allowed to access the computer, and then click Next.

Click Finish.