Setting up a LAN to play games

Question

ok so me and my friend want to play Diablo2 over a LAN and i am not quite sure how to set one up. would connecting the computers using a normal cat5 cable be enough or would i need to go out and buy a router and or a "crossover cable"?

also if i do have to go out and buy something extra would you mind explaining how to set up the LAN with a router (i'm assuming you just plug the two comps into the router, but im prbably wrong)

thanks

Answer 1

crossover cable if just you 2 want to play, routter if you 2 want to play over the internet against others

Answer 2

im not quite sure about it but here's how i look at it.

if you opt to connect pc to pc, the lan cable you need to get should have pc to pc ports (the ends). if you plan to get a router and connect the 2 computers from there, then you need a pc to hub/router ports on the lan cables for both computers.

another option is to buy a wifi chip for your cmoputers which makes it a whole lot easier and un-messy.

also, you need to set up your tcp/ip settings in your network configuration settings in control panel. doesnt need much work. this process allows both your computers to read each other.

of course, i may be wrong.

Answer 3

Whether you want to setup network gaming for local or on line gaming the basics are the same. You will need either a network switch, some Ethernet cables, and each computer must have a network adapter. Today in the wireless age people probably want to play LAN games via wireless but due to interference from various sources wireless still is not the best bet for network performance. Network performance and the least amount of lag is more important for network gaming. There are many companies that make network cards and switches. Personally I prefer Netgear due to the ease of setup.

There are instructions on line.  I found a link for you to help walk through the setup portion.