Network adapters are hardware or software components that enable Windows systems to communicate with other devices. This section provides an overview of the installation of an Ethernet network adapter.
Identification
Networked computers are identified by unique computer names. The computer and network must be named before installing the network adapter software. To specify the computer and workgroup names select the Computer Name tab in the System Properties Control Panel applet, Control Panel > System.
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Microsoft recommends the following rules for computer names:
- No more than fifteen characters
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Only alphanumeric characters plus ! @ # $ % ^ & ( ) - _ ' { } . ~
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No spaces
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Identical Workgroup Name on each computer
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Unique Computer Name on the network
How should client computers be identified? Management of larger networks is facilitated by names that include some form of client numbering however network expansion or restructuring invalidate simple sequential numbering schemes. One alternative is to base the computer number on its physical network connection, i.e. the hub and port number. This insures unique client names and enables client identification for troubleshooting and performance monitoring. We recommend naming client computers 'Clienthp' where h is the hub number, starting at 1, and p is the port number, starting at 1, in hex. (Note: computer names are not case sensitive). It is also good practice to rename computers to be consistent with the network computer name, right-click My Computer and choose Rename.
We also recommend using FHC Unit Number as the common Workgroup name. (Note: workgroup names are case sensitive).
The Computer Description is optional and will appear to anyone browsing the network but has no other function. Additional information to identify the computer or its location can be added in this field.
Adapter Network Installation
After the computer name and workgroup have been assigned the NIC can be inserted into the system motherboard. When the computer is restarted Windows should detect the new hardware. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to complete the installation.
If the installation has been successful the interface card will appear under Network adapters in Device Manager without any warnings
Device Manager indicating successful EtherLink LAN adapter installation.
IE float bugAdvanced properties, Driver and Resource control are accessable via the adapter properties dialog.
The General Tab of the 3Com LAN PC Card adapter properties dialog.