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If you have more than one PC in your office (or even your home), consider installing a network. Networked computers can share files, printers, and even modems (if you buy extra software). Setting up a basic network is easy, and plunging hardware costs are making the task more affordable.

Windows 95 and 98 include a built-in peer-to-peer (PC-to-PC) networking capability that makes it a snap to set up small networks. If your business has more than a few PCs, however, you'll want a full-fledged network operating system such as Windows NT, Novell NetWare, or Linux.

Your hardware choices start with network interface cards. PCI cards are most common, but ISA versions are also available. NICs come in two speeds: 10 megabits per second, and 10 or 100 mbps (10/100 mbps). The slower, 10-mbps cards cost $20 to $30 and offer plenty of speed for sharing files, printers, or Internet access. The 10/100 cards sell for $50 to $80 and are worth the premium if you run heavy-duty applications such as a central database or if you plan to expand.

If you intend to network only two PCs, you can get by with a pair of NICs and a crossover cable. Such cables come in lengths of up to 25 feet and cost $10 to $25. If your network has three or more computers, you'll need regular network cables and a hub, a central connection box. Hubs also come in 10- and 100-mbps speeds. A 10-mbps unit with four ports costs between $50 and $60; eight-port versions run about $70 to $80. The 100-mbps units are considerably pricier, starting at about $100 for four ports and $150 for eight ports. You can start with 10/100 NICs and a 10-mbps hub, and then upgrade to a 100-mbps hub as your needs expand and your budget allows.

If cost is a major concern, you can save some money by buying a networking kit. The $100 SOHOware Network Plus PCI Starter contains a pair of 10/100 NICs; a five-port, 10-mbps hub; and cabling. A 100-mbps hub version sells for about $150. But you can just as easily buy the individual components yourself. Most computer dealers carry them, and the parts may be simple to install without kit instructions. NICs and hubs are always compatible. Some popular component makers include 3Com, Asanté, Compex, D-Link, Intel, and Bay Networks .

If you go the parts-and-pieces route, remember to get Category 5 10Base-T cables, which look like wide standard phone cables. The cost is about $15 for a 25-foot cable and $25 for a 50-foot cable.

To get connected, follow the steps on the following pages for each PC on your network.