Here are the requirements, I am sure you meet most of them there may be something to look at.
Home Networking requirements
Creating a home network obviously requires more than one computer. In addition, there are several components that you will need. You may already have these components installed.
If you need to purchase any of these components, most computer stores will be able to assist you. Once you have your network components ready, the Home Networking wizard makes setting up your home network much easier.
The components of a home network include:
Computers You need two or more computers for a network.
Network media This includes the cables or method used to connect your computers together.
Network adapter Often called a Network Interface Card, or NIC. Network adapters physically connect your computer to the network.
Networkable operating system Windows provides the software support needed to enable your devices to communicate with each other.
Internet connection (optional) This includes the hardware and wiring necessary to access the Internet. This includes traditional modems, wireless modems, Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN), Digital Subscriber Line (DSL), and cable modems.
Network hub (optional) A hub connects multiple computers at a central location. A hub is used when connecting two or more computers to a network. A hub is not required with some newer technologies such as power line or phone line networks.
In addition, you'll want to make sure that the computers on your network meet the following minimum requirements:
At least one computer must be running Microsoft ME. The computer running Windows ME acts as the server for the network?the computer that coordinates network services.
If connecting your home network to a broadband (or high-speed) connection, such as a cable modem or DSL, it's best to install Windows ME on the computer that is directly connected to the broadband connection.
All other computers on the home network must be running Windows 95 or later.
Each computer must have an available PCI or ISA slot, or with some newer products on the market, an available USB or parallel port for installing the network adapter. If you will be using Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) to enable other computers on your home network to share an Internet connection, your ICS host computer will require two network adapters, and therefore, two available slots or ports.
If you have the computers, the home network hardware and ready to set up your network, start the [Home Networking wizard] on the computer that runs Windows ME.
Notes
Manufacturers are offering network adapters that use your household phone wires, power lines, or radio signals to send and receive data between your computers and any attached devices, such as a printer or scanner. This eliminates the need for special cables.
External network adapters are the easiest to set up. External network adapters usually don't require you to open up your computer or install special network cables in your home. Refer to any documentation that came from your hardware manufacturer.
If your computer does not have a network adapter, or if you need help determining whether one is installed, see the documentation that came with your computer, or contact your hardware manufacturer.
