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Make a direct network connection

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Applies To: Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2003 R2, Windows Server 2003 with SP1, Windows Server 2003 with SP2

To make a direct network connection

  1. Open Network Connections.

  2. Double-click New Connection Wizard, and then click Next.

  3. Click Set up an advanced connection, and then click Next.

  4. Click Connect directly to another computer, click Next, and then follow the instructions in the New Connection Wizard.

Notes

  • To create a direct network connection that acts as a host, you must be logged on as Administrator or be a member of the Administrators group. Guest direct network connections do not require administrator credentials.

  • To open Network Connections, click Start, click Control Panel, and then double-click Network Connections.

  • If you specify your connection as a host when you create it, the connection appears as Incoming Connections in the Network Connections folder.

  • You can create multiple direct connections by copying them in the Network Connections folder. You can then rename the connections and modify connection settings. By doing so, you can easily create different connections to accommodate multiple ports, host computers, and so on.

  • Direct connections can bypass authentication requirements. This is useful for devices such as handheld PCs. You must configure this setting in the host incoming connection. For more information, see Related Topics.

  • If you create a direct connection by using a serial (RS-232C) cable, the port that you select in the New Connection Wizard is enabled for connections that use a null modem.

  • If you are logged on to your computer as Administrator or a member of the Administrators group when you create a direct connection, you are presented with a list of connection devices to choose from that includes all of the parallel ports for the computer, infrared ports that are installed and enabled, and COM ports. If you need to use a COM port for a direct connection, ask your system administrator to configure one of the COM ports on your computer with a null modem by using Phone and Modem Options in Control Panel.

  • Users do not need to use direct connections to allow access to shared resources, such as files and printers, over a local area network. In order to enable shared access to resources on the local computer, you must enable file and print sharing, share the resources, and then set up the appropriate permissions.

Information about functional differences

  • Your server might function differently based on the version and edition of the operating system that is installed, your account permissions, and your menu settings. For more information, see Viewing Help on the Web.

See Also

Concepts

Using direct connections
Grant incoming connection access rights to your computer
Share a folder or drive