Question about connecting two PCs with a crossover cable?

Question

I have a Windows 7 PC and a new Dell with 10. I'd like to be able to share files between them.
Is it possible to connect them with a crossover Ethernet cable, get them set up on a workgroup, etc., (all the IP address and subnet mask stuff) and then run the 7 machine just by booting it up (it has no password) without having to have a keyboard or monitor connected? I can connect a monitor long enough to go through the setup, but don't want to have a full dual setup long-term.

Answer 1

Actually I would just connect them to the same ROUTER and let them work over the network! Any good remote desktop will let you "remote" into the other machine. Teamviewer, VNC, even windows remoter desktop.



If they a physically close together, just get a KVM (keyboard,video,mouse) switch and you can use either one as needed with just one keyboard etc.



But really, if you want them on the "network" just connect them both to the same router. If you have to connect them without the router, use a crossover (your windows 10 machine probably is automatic and does not need a crossover to work), set static IP's on the ethernet ports be sure to use one NOT being used for internet work, and you have a connection.



Do note that a lot of home computers will not boot without a keyboard due to bios checks on the booting system. Some will some won't. So connect a monitor, try booting without a keyboard or mouse, see it the machine will even boot!

Answer 2

Unfortunately, PCs are pretty picky. They require a keyboard and monitor be connected even if they aren't being used. In fact if you try booting a regular PC without a keyboard, it will tell you "keyboard error - keyboard not detected - hit F1 to continue" which is one of the most nonsensical error messages in the history of computers.





However, sharing your Win7's files will allow the Win10 PC to pick them up.

Answer 3

Google VNC (not VPN). There are various sites concerning this. Also, read the Wikipedia article:



https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtual_Network_Computing



I hope this helps.