Communication b/n 2 Computers

[swinghead]

Hi folks...

Could anyone tell me how to setup a communication between 2 computers...
I need to setup a network with just two systems. I am having a windows server in one system and another has a windows XP. I have a 10Base-T Hub/Repeater and the 2 cables to connect them.
I have connected all these in the proper way(I guess so).
But i dont know how i could make out if they are connected and how i could send files or data from one to another?
And one more thing, I dont want to connect it to the internet. Just a to and fro communication b/n the two computers.
Please guide thru the procedures or a web link that tells me how to do it.

Thanks.

 

[TheMajor]

go to start>run
type:CMD

type:ipconfig /all

write down the IP adress.

go to the other computer, type:CMD in start>run
type: ping theipadress

and see if it responds.

 

[s0me0ne]

TheMajor nailed it. Just set one ip to 192.168.1.100 and the other to 192.168.1.101 then ping then BAM! your done

 

[TheMajor]

True, but its set to automatically assign IP's by default.
Static IP's are the best, easiest to use. I always use 192.168.0.1 for router and 192.168.0.2 etc for the comps.

 

[swinghead]

Alright. That was fine and is working well, b'coz after pinging there were no error messages but told some no. of packets has been received and transferred.
Woow. that's cool..
But why and/or when do i need to configure active directories and DNS server?
Is it when i need to get connected to the internet or when i need to install and use the exchange servers or SQL server on both client and server machines.