Where best to go for Network Info?

I have this Win7 PC, plus another XP SP3 PC.

I am happy to keep them seperate and don't require networking as such, being happy to share any files via external HDD or USB Flashdrive.

One Port of my Router conects to the mains electric circuit via a Devolo "Ethernet over mains power" device and both of the computers are in turn connected to the Router via Devolo. So they sit behind the Routers standard "block incoming" firewall and their own Windows Firewall.

It all just works "plug and play" no software was installed for it and when I installed Win7 on the main PC, when I was given the option of which type of Network? I just selected "Public" (The suggested option if you don't know which you want.)

However, when I replaced the faulty Router today with a new one (Netgear DG834) I turned the Win7 PC on after connecting it, ready to enter the ISP info, and was prompted to select the type of Network for "Network 2."

Again I chose "Public" but, as I am ignorant when it comes to Networking, I was wondering if I have done the right thing? Am I going to end up with 5 or 6 networks in the future, as I replace faulty routers?!

Most of the Networking info is about proper networking and not the appropriate settings for PCs that are to remain seperate behind one Router, so I would be grateful if anyone could advise where best to look for such info or give links to any recommended websites.

Alternatively, can anyone advise whether what I have done is actually OK? In which case I will be saved from reading all the Networking stuff.

"Network and Sharing Centre" just shows:-

This Computer -> Network 2 -> Internet

So I think "Network 2" might be the only network, but am not sure.

Many thanks for any replies or links.

You would be best off choosing the Work or Home networking options unless you plan to connect in a public place like a coffee shop.

As for a way to view network info, I prefer to use ipconfig /all "then hit enter" typed into the command prompt, this will usually tell you most of what you need to know. It will look similar to the second picture below.

If you want to change the name of the Network 2 just click on the icon and change the name. The picture below makes it more obvious.

Thanks very much for the info chev65

I will choose "Home" then. What is the advantage compared to "Public"? I was under the impression that "Public" would be more secure.

stephens said:

Thanks very much for the info chev65

I will choose "Home" then. What is the advantage compared to "Public"? I was under the impression that "Public" would be more secure.

Public is more secure but it imposes certain limitations "makes it harder to share files" on a Home network and isn't required on a secure network with a router.

In general you want to use Home network setting if your setting up a Homegroup or a Work type network for a mixed Op system network but either one will work.