With a network, you can share files and devices (such as printers) with other people in your home, and you can also share one Internet connection. There are six main steps to set up a home or small office network.
Decide whether you want a wired or wireless network, or a combination of the two. A wireless network gives you mobility and flexibility, and there's no need to install wiring. On the other hand, a wired network usually gives you a more reliable and faster connection, but it requires that your PCs and devices be in a fixed location and that you have wiring installed. For small home and work networks, wireless is usually the best option overall.
At a minimum, you'll need a network adapter for each PC (most laptops come with a wireless network adapter already installed) and a wireless router (these usually allow for wired connections, as well). If you want to connect to the Internet, you'll also need an account with an Internet service provider (ISP) and a broadband modem. Many ISPs provide a broadband modem (or a combined modem/router device) as part of your subscription and can do the installation for you.
If your router displays the Windows logo or the phrase "Compatible with Windows," Windows Connect Now (WCN) will help you set it up. Otherwise, most routers come with instructions and a setup CD that will help you set it up.
To connect the router to the Internet so that everyone on the network has Internet access, follow the instructions provided by your ISP. If you didn't get instructions, try plugging one end of a network (Ethernet) cable into the wireless wide area network (WWAN) or Internet port on your router and the other end into the broadband modem.
For the easiest setup, buy devices that display the Windows logo or the phrase "Compatible with Windows," and then follow the instructions that came with the device. Wireless devices, such as wireless printers, can be placed anywhere within range of your wireless network.
If you're setting up a home network, creating a homegroup is the easiest way to share files and printers. All homegroup PCs must be running Windows 8.1, Windows RT 8.1, or Windows 7. For more info, see HomeGroup from start to finish.
If you have older versions of Windows on your PCs or you're setting up a small office network, you'll need to turn on file and printer sharing instead. For more info, see Share files and folders.