How to Link Two Computers Using a USB Cable

By Raul Avenir, eHow Contributor
updated: August 23, 2010

The Universal Serial Bus, or USB, cable is a standard cable conveniently used for connecting almost any computer peripheral to your computer. Linking two PCs using a USB-USB cable is a very easy way to connect two computers. Connecting two computers via a USB-USB cable allows you to build a small network and share your Internet connection with a second PC, or to transfer files from one computer to another.


Instructions

Things You'll Need:

* USB bridge cable

1.Place both computers within a distance that can accommodate the length of the USB bridge cable and locate the USB ports of both computers. Make the distance close enough to provide some slack to the USB bridge cable once it is plugged onto the computers.

2.Insert one end of the USB bridge cable into the USB port of one computer and do the same for the second computer. Do not force the USB plug into the USB port if you encounter any resistance. You might be attempting to insert it in an upside down position, so invert the plug position, and try to gently insert it again. Make sure that both connections are snugly fit.

3.Install the software that came with the USB bridge connector. The USB cable is the physical link that will allow signals from both computers to reach one another, but these signals have to be configured and processed by a common software program so that both computers will be able to understand each other. A software disc normally accompanies the USB bridge cable; load the disc into the CD-DVD ROM drive of both computers to automatically install the software.

4.Choose whether you want to install the program as a link adapter or as a network adapter. Normally, USB bridge software programs wilI give you a choice whether to use the program as a link adapter or as a network adapter. If you install it as a link adapter, you will only be able to transfer files back and forth. If you install it as a network adapter, you will have full network functionality. The two computers should be connected as soon as you complete the software installation.