Connecting two computers with network cables is possible. The methods are as follows: 1. Prepare an Ethernet cable and a computer with network port, and use a USB to network port adapter if necessary; 2. After connecting, set up network sharing, including enabling network discovery, file and printer sharing, and turn off password protection; 3. If the automatic IP acquisition fails, manually set up the static IP address to ensure that the IP is on the same subnet; 4. Select the appropriate data transmission method, such as shared folders, remote desktops, or third-party tool transfer files. After completing the above steps, the two computers can communicate and transmit data through direct connection.

Directly answer the question in the title: It is possible to connect two computers with network cables, and the method is not complicated. Just pay attention to setting up network sharing and IP configuration and it can be used normally.

Preparation: Confirm the hardware and connection method

First of all, you need an Ethernet cable (just just connect directly) and two computers with network ports. Many laptops now may not have an RJ45 interface, and at this time you need a USB to network adapter. After plugging in, there is a point-to-point connection between the two computers, and no router or switch is required.

At this time, you may find that the computer prompts "no network access" or similar status. This is normal, because by default, the system will not automatically assign IP addresses that can communicate with each other, and the sharing function needs to be manually adjusted or enabled.

Set up file sharing and network discovery (for Windows)

If you just want to transfer a file, share a printer, or do other operations on the LAN, you need to enable network discovery and file sharing:

• Open Control Panel → Network and Internet → Home Group and Sharing Center
• Click "Change Advanced Sharing Settings"
• Under the current network configuration file (usually "dedicated" or "public"):
  • Enable network discovery
  • Enable file and printer sharing
  • Turn off password protection. If you don't want to enter your account password every time (but be careful about security)

After completing these, the two computers should be able to see each other's names and shared content on the "network".

Manually set the IP address (optional but sometimes necessary)

If automatic IP acquisition does not work, you can try manually setting the static IP to ensure communication:

• Open "Network and Sharing Center" → Change Adapter Settings → Right-click Ethernet Connection → Properties → Double-click IPv4 Protocol
• Select "Use the IP address below"
• Fill in on the first computer:
  • IP address: 192.168.1.1
  • Subnet mask: 255.255.255.0
• Fill in the second computer:
  • IP address: 192.168.1.2
  • Subnet mask: 255.255.255.0
  • Default gateway: 192.168.1.1 (points to the first computer)

In this way, the two computers can ping and transmit data through this private network.

Recommended data transmission method

Once the connection is successful, you can pass files in several common ways:

• Shared folder: Right-click folder → Properties → Share → Add Everyone permissions
• Use Remote Desktop (provided that you have enabled Remote Access)
• Third-party tools such as Feige's letter transmission, LAN file transmission software, etc.

It should be noted that this direct connection method is not suitable for high-speed transmission of large files, especially for network cards below gigabit, which will be slower. Also, remember to close the firewall or release the relevant ports, otherwise it may be inaccessible.

Basically that's it.

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