Connect directly to another computer option is grayed out

[lhk890419]

I was trying to make a direct connection between my 2 computers using this method (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/305621) but on my laptop, the option for "connect directly to another computer" is grayed out. How do I enable this? I enabled network file sharing option but the button is still grayed out.

 

[kimsland]

You need a cross-over network cable (I always get this confused !)
Then just run NetSetup (you can also create a floppy network install disk with this method)

 

[lhk890419]

What's a NetSetup and how do I run it? BTW, my desktop computer's "connect directly to another computer" option isn't grayed out even though I don't have a cross-over network cable.

 

[kimsland]

If the computers are connecting to a hub or router or external mobroadband modem, they need "patch" cables"

If the computers are connected directly together, they need a cross-over ethernet network cable (you'll need to purchase this)

Then go to the first computer (even though the network icon is not doing anything) and click on Start-->Run-->Netsetup

You can also create a floppy disk from this method

Then go to the other computer and do the same thing (or ideally run it from the floppy)

Restart when it asks.