How to Manually Set Up Computer Protocols

by Bonnie Conrad, Demand Media

Protocols let you talk to other computers.

The protocols installed on your computer allow it to communicate with the outside world, including your company network and the global Internet. In many cases the computer will simply pick up the connection it needs automatically, but in other cases computer owners will need to configure their own computer protocols using the information provided by the networking department or computer support technicians.

Step 1

Gather the networking information from your network team or IT administrator. You will need this information to properly set up your network.

Step 2

Click your computer's "Start" button and choose "Control Panel" from the menu.

Step 3

In Windows XP, double-click the "Network Connections" icon, right-click "Local Area Network" and choose "Properties" from the list. For Windows Vista, click on "Network and Internet" and "Network and Sharing Center." Choose "Manage Network Connections" and choose the IP protocol. For Windows 7, click the "Start" button, choose "Run" from the menu and type "ncpa.cpl" in the box. Right-click the "Local Area Network" connection and choose "Properties" to set the protocols manually.

Step 4

Scroll down to the "Internet Protocol" option and click the "Properties" button. Choose "Use the following IP address" and enter the IP address, subnet mask and default gateway numbers you obtained from your networking personnel. Each of these entries will be a series of four numbers separated by periods, e.g., 10.78.22.240.

Step 5

Enter a primary and secondary DNS server number, if one has been provided to you. Click the "Advanced" button to enter additional protocol information.

Step 6

Click the "WINS" tab and enter the information provided by your networking staff. Click "OK" when you are finished and click "OK" again to close the Network Properties window. Reboot your computer if prompted.

References

Microsoft Support: Configuring IP Settings

About the Author

Based in Pennsylvania, Bonnie Conrad has been working as a professional freelance writer since 2003. Her work can be seen on Credit Factor, Constant Content and a number of other websites. Conrad also works full-time as a computer technician and loves to write about a number of technician topics. She studied computer technology and business administration at Harrisburg Area Community College.