I am not real experienced with computers - use them mainly for word
processing. I have a small office, and have XP professional. I would like
to be able to work from home on some occasions. How difficult is networking?
Can I use the same installation disks, or am I required to purchase
identical software to use at home? Will I need to call a professional?
--
kbarron

On Wed, 21 Dec 2005 15:44:02 -0800, "kbarron"
<kbarron@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote:

>I am not real experienced with computers - use them mainly for word
>processing. I have a small office, and have XP professional. I would like
>to be able to work from home on some occasions. How difficult is networking?
> Can I use the same installation disks, or am I required to purchase
>identical software to use at home? Will I need to call a professional?

Setting up a network between a group of computers in your home, or in an office,
is not terribly difficult. If you're used to computers in general, you should
be able to follow instructions provided by any number of helpers.
<http://nitecruzr.blogspot.com/2005/08/networking-your-computers.html>
http://nitecruzr.blogspot.com/2005/0...computers.html

Connecting a computer, or group of computers, to the Internet is similar to
connecting a group of computers in your home or office. Your problems may be
different, but the degree of complexity is about the same. You do have a need
for more security awareness when doing this, as the Internet is full of
undesirable traffic.
<http://nitecruzr.blogspot.com/2005/05/please-protect-yourself-layer-your.html>
http://nitecruzr.blogspot.com/2005/0...ayer-your.html

Connecting your home and office networks, thru the Internet, is another story.
The security risks to the computers in both ends of a connection are
considerable. You will need a VPN, or similar protection. In this case, and
based upon the questions that you have posed, I would suggest that you hire
professional help.

--
Cheers,
Chuck, MS-MVP [Windows - Networking]
http://nitecruzr.blogspot.com/
Paranoia is not a problem, when it's a normal response from experience.
My email is AT DOT
actual address pchuck mvps org.