how do i connect two laptops so i can transfer files between the two?

The simplest method is to use a flash disk and copy the files across in lots of 8 GBytes at a time (if your flash disk has a capacity of 8 GBytes).

You can find a cross-over cable at any computer shop. It looks like an ordinary network cable except that a few of the wires are crossed over in one of the plugs. It will probably cost you $5.00 to $10.00. On the other hand, if your two laptops connect to the same router (wired or wirelessly) then you can copy the files across directly.

If you use a cross-over cable then you have to manually set up your IP addresses. If you use a router then you have to set up shares.

If this leaves you confused then you should ask the networking experts for more detailed advice: http://social.answers.microsoft.com/Forums/en-US/**w7network** /threads

On Mon, 20 Dec 2010 18:34:46 +0000, chuck7468 wrote:

> I am trying to transfer 30 gig's of files from one laptop to another. I heard from a friend that a usb crossover cable would allow me to move this information using a simple drag and pull in windows explorer... but , 1) where do I find this cable and does anyone know about how expensive they are?

A crossover cable would work, and they are very inexpensive ($5 US or

so). You can get one at any computer store or online source like

Amazon.com, newegg.com, etc.

But using a crossover cable means you have to set up a network, and

that requires some know-how. An easier way to do it would be by using

a thumb drive a few times. A 16GB USB thumb drive is about $20 at

Amazon.com, and you'd have to use it only twice. They are also good to

have around for other such uses in the future.

Ken Blake (MS MVP)