Home PC owners are often faced with the need to combine several computers into local network, however, due to a number of reasons (remoteness from each other, etc.), this may not be feasible in the usual ways. And here specialized utilities will come to the rescue that can create virtual local area networks between users connected to the Internet.
The most obvious area of ​​application of such utilities is multiplayer games that do not support online mode, but the matter is by no means limited to them. There are all the usual things available on a local network: browsing the contents of folders with open access, work with network printers, listen to other users' iTunes library, and even control other people's computers with built-in Remote Desktop.

Developer logmein

The size 3.1 MB

Works without account; there are ways to display real networked PCs in a virtual environment

Verdict

Hamachi for a long time remains the most popular utility for creating virtual networks. True, after it was acquired by a large company LogMeIn, specializing in network software, there were some concerns about its future, but, fortunately, they turned out to be in vain - the program remains free for non-commercial use, with a limit of 16 clients on the network. If there is a need to connect more people, you should consider purchasing a license that allows you to use the utility to connect 256 computers. This opportunity will cost $200 per year.

Unlike EasyVPN discussed below, Hamachi can be used without creating an account: by pressing just one button, the user connects to the server and receives an IP address. Further, the procedure for creating a virtual network or connecting to an existing one looks exactly the same as in Comodo.

Let's note some advantages of those who are not too lazy to spend a few minutes to get a free account. In this case, they will not have to re-configure the program on a new PC each time, and they will also be able to manage their account through the web interface.

In the mode of operation without authorization, which is called mesh, only the computers associated with the virtual network are visible. If there is an account, the mode appears Gateway virtual networking, allowing them to access all the resources of another user's real LAN. In mode hub-and-spoke you can only work with selected PCs on a real network.

Please note that Hamachi does not have a remote desktop management function, since LogMeIn has a separate utility for this. The program can also enable/disable encryption and traffic compression.

One of the most interesting Hamachi features is to create a special utility installer using the web interface, which can automatically add other users to the required virtual network. You can get such a distribution kit after simple operations on the site, you can use the link to the program repeatedly.

Freeware (for non-commercial use)

Developer Comodo

The size 6.44 MB

Rich functionality; easy setup

Inability to use the same account on multiple PCs at the same time

Verdict

Comodo EasyVPN is a relatively new development of a company known for several good and at the same time free programs for non-commercial use (Comodo Firewall, Comodo Backup, Comodo Antivirus, etc.). The utility for creating a virtual network, which is also distributed free of charge, was no exception.

The advantages of EasyVPN include a simple user-friendly interface and simple virtual network setup. The user needs to create an account - perhaps this is not very convenient, but it will allow you to forget about re-configuring the program (all the old options will be picked up again even after installing it on a new PC). Unfortunately, you will not be able to log in under one account from several computers at the same time - when it is activated on one PC, the other will be automatically disconnected from the server. This is due to the fact that one specific static IP address is associated with the account.

Comodo EasyVPN allows you not only to create virtual local networks for games, but also has a built-in chat with the function of transferring files over a secure channel (however, by default, absolutely all traffic is encrypted, not just files). Also part of EasyVPN is the ability to remotely control a PC, and all these additional options do not need special settings - for example, to activate Remote Desktop, you need literally one click on the local computer and confirmation of opening access from the user on the other end of the wire. In the settings, you can set the ratio of picture quality / transmission speed.

EasyVPN also allows you to deploy private, password-protected virtual networks and gives you the option to turn off traffic encryption.

The Comodo utility only works in Windows environment, however, it supports all the latest editions of Microsoft OS, including 64-bit versions.

Freeware

Developer AWIT Systems

Website

The size 12.2 MB

BitTorrent support for file sharing; running on multiple PCs under one account

Unusual interface

Verdict

The Remobo utility is currently in beta testing, so any program features are available to everyone. In the future, however, it is planned to introduce premium accounts with specific features, but free basic accounts will still be available to any user.

In general, Remobo functionally repeats its competitors, although it looks somewhat weaker. One of the features of this program is a specific file sharing option - just add the desired set of folders and files to the list, and they become available for viewing and downloading to other users. The most interesting thing is that the exchange of information takes place via the BitTorrent protocol; for this, a client of the same name is even installed along with the program. Such a solution can increase the speed of data exchange if the same files are available on different computers multiple users at once.

Remobo also has a built-in remote desktop utility and messaging program.

Remobo works on Mac OS X and Linux, supports 64-bit versions of Windows. Unlike Comodo EasyVPN, it allows you to use one account to run the program on several computers at once - thus, the user can combine all his machines into a virtual network.

Freeware (open source)

Developer

Website

The size 1.92 MB

Support for common messaging protocols; free use for commercial purposes

Average functionality

Verdict

Wippien differs from other utilities primarily in that it can also be used for commercial purposes, since the project is developed as an open source and anyone can, if necessary, download not only the program itself, but also its source codes.

Wippien is based on Jabber, so you can either use an existing JID as an account or register a new account like [email protected]

The utility supports communication between users and, unlike other programs in this review, allows you to do this not only using the internal protocol, but also in such familiar networks as ICQ, MSN, AIM and Google Talk.

For those who don't need additional features, a stripped-down version of Wippien is offered - the MiniVPN utility. This distribution of the program is distributed without support for the messaging function. However, to use it, you still need to have the installed full version Wippien, which should be run at least once in order for the settings to be saved in the system.

In addition to MiniVPN, another separate application is available - WippienService, which allows you to run Wippien in the system as a service and work in this way with the computer, even if the user has logged out of his Windows account.

Wippien can also function in 64-bit versions of Windows, for this you need to download and install a 64-bit driver separately. There is also a beta Wippien console client for Linux.

Freeware

Developer

Website

The size 8.4 MB

Cross-platform; installation on routers; proxy support

Works as a server-client (you can create a "one-way" virtual network)

Verdict

NeoRouter is the most cross-platform utility of the above. It is installed not only on all the latest Windows versions(starting with Windows 2000) and Mac OS X (starting with Tiger), but also works on almost all major Linux distributions (including 64-bit versions) and, most interestingly, can be installed on routers using tomato, fon and openwrt that extend the capabilities of these devices.

NeoRouter differs from other participants in that it operates on a server-client basis. You need to install the server part on one of your computers and then connect to it using a separate Network Explorer program. A direct P2P connection is created between the PCs, which allows data to be exchanged faster than with an intermediate link. To connect to remote computer it is not necessary to install NeoRouter on every machine. To do this, it is enough to use the portable version of the program recorded on a flash drive.

Another feature of NeoRouter is proxy support (HTTP, SOCKS4 and SOCKS5); in addition, the functionality of the program can be extended using a small number of add-ons available on the developer's website.

Setting up a virtual local area network using Comodo EasyVPN as an example

Consider the process of creating and connecting to a virtual network using the example of two people. The procedure is almost identical in all programs, we will be based on Comodo EasyVPN.

So, both users install the utility from the manufacturer's website (while agreeing to add a new one to the system). virtual adapter when the installer asks about it). After launching EasyVPN, each of them needs to create an account, which can be done directly from the program by clicking on the button Register a new account.

To deploy a network, one of the users selects from the menu Networks – Create a new network. In the window that appears, specify the network name and password (option Enable VPN we recommend leaving it on). After that, the other user selects on his computer the item Networks – Join a network and enters the network name and password in the dialog that appears.

Now both are in the same virtual network and can, for example, play computer games by LAN.

Another important point concerns the first launch of the utility and its attempt to access the Internet. The firewall installed in the system may ask if it is worth adding new program to the white list. You must answer in the affirmative, otherwise you will not be able to configure the virtual network.

The principle of creating a local network in any version of Windows (XP, 7, 8, 10) is practically nothing is not different. Exceptions are complex multilevel corporate networks where multiple subnets, proxy servers and VPNs are used.

But in this article we will look at how to create home network, without resorting to buying expensive equipment, but using a regular switch or router with Wi-Fi support.

What is needed to create a network

First of all, to create a local network from a certain number of computers, we need equipment:

note: In case a direct connection will be used (i.e. twisted pair inserted into both devices without using a router), then you will need not a standard cable, but cross— over, except when modern network boards with MDI-X support. In this case, the standard crimping method can be used.

How to create a local network

Now we proceed directly to the creation. First we need to prepare:

• Install all equipment in its place - computers, routers, etc.
• crimping cable, if necessary.
• Doing wiring, i.e. we stretch the twisted pair cable to the equipment.
• We connect twisted pair equipment.

Costs note that when the connection is made and all devices are running, the connection connectors on the computers should shine. The same applies to routers with routers, only they have light bulbs located on front panel. If any light is off, then the connection is made. not properly.

When the connection is made, you need to configure the network in the operating system.

To start checking working group, for which we go to the properties " my computer". You can not open the properties, but use a combination Win+ R and enter in the window sysdm. cpl.

On all devices working group must be the same, otherwise the computers will not see each other.

To change the group, just click on the button. change and enter a group name. Name must be entered Latin, and match on all devices.

Then we look for network icon in the notification area and with its help we get to Network and Sharing Center.

Here we are interested in the link changes additional options , it's third from the left and will allow you to edit sharing options. For each profile choose: Enable network discovery, autotuning and general access to files and printers.

Scrolling page and below disable shared access with password protection. All other settings can be left. Click Save changes and exit.

This completes the setup. The network should work, but only if your router distributes dynamic addresses.

If a router was used, or the devices were connected directly with a cable, then a few more settings need to be made.

Network settings

When direct connection or using a router, we need change computer ip addresses. For this necessary:

We will not describe what each setting is responsible for, because. this is a fairly broad topic. It is enough to enter on all computers the addresses that are described above.

After making all the above settings, the network should work. However, do not forget that a firewall or antivirus can completely block the network. Therefore, if nothing worked, check their settings or temporarily disable them altogether.

Local network via WiFi router

Setting up a network through a router is absolutely nothing is not different from what we have described above.

If the device is configured to distribute dynamic addresses, then the addresses do not need to be changed. Well, if IPs static, you will have to use the previous section.

Also, there will be no difference between whether the device is connected by cable or via Wi-Fi, in most routers, the address distribution settings are configured simultaneously and on wireless and on wired connection.

How to make shared folders

After everything is set up, you need to create shared folders to exchange information.

However, this is still not enough. Now on the folder properties window you need to find the tab safety. And then successively press Change – Add.

Instruction

If there are only two computers on your network, you will need a cross cable to connect them into a network - a twisted pair that is connected to RG-45 connectors crosswise at both ends. Such a connection is necessary so that the pins of the connector of one network card, responsible for receiving signals, were connected to the contacts of another network card responsible for transmitting, and vice versa. If there are more than two computers on the network, you will need a hub to connect them to the network. Computers are connected to the switch directly. Patch cords, cross-crimped or directly, are sold in computer stores.

Now you need to set up the host computer. In Control Panel, open the Network and Internet Connections folder. Right-click on the "external" adapter icon to open the drop-down menu. Select the "Properties" option and go to the "Advanced" tab. Check the box "Allow others to use the connection ...". If you see fit, allow other users to manage sharing by checking the appropriate box. Click OK.

Answer "Yes" to the warning about changing the IP address. "Internal" network adapter, which links the control computer to the network, will be assigned a static network address of 192.168.1.1. If one of the computers within the network has the role of an FTP or WEB server, in the "Sharing" section, activate the "Options" button. In the list of services, check the protocols that will be used within the network.

If you want to create own service, click Add. In the new window, enter a description of the service, the IP address or computer name on which it will run, the port numbers, and the type of protocol that the service will use.

The DCHP protocol running on the host computer automatically assigns network addresses to computers on the local network. The inconvenience will be that the network will be inoperable when the server is turned off. To avoid this, you can assign client computers static IP addresses manually. Go to the "Control Panel" and open the icon network connections. Click to Call context menu on the icon "Local Area Connection" right-click and select the option "Properties".

In the "Components" section, check the "Internet Protocol (TCP / IP)" item and activate "Properties". If you decide to set IP addresses manually, select "Use the following IP address". You can use the address range 192.168.0.2 - 192.168.0.254. The address must be unique for each computer on the network. Set the subnet mask value to 255.255.255.0. In the Default Gateway field, enter the network address of the server 192.168.1.1.

Enter 192.168.1.1 for "Use the following DNS addresses". Click "Advanced" and go to the DNS tab. In the Connection DNS Suffix field, enter MSHOME.NET. Check the "Register this connection's addresses" checkbox.

Run Internet browser Explorer and go to the "Tools" menu. Select "Internet Options" and go to the "Connections" tab. Click "Install", then "Next" to continue. Check "Connect to the Internet" and click "Next". Select "Set up a connection manually" and command "Next" to continue. Select "Connect via permanent high speed connection”, click “Next” again and in the next screen “Finish”.

We continue to consider home low-voltage networks. In this article I want to touch on a topic that is very relevant today - the local computer network at home.

We are surrounded by more and more more devices that can connect to the local computer network or the world wide web. Let's look at how to organize the connection of several computers or devices to a local network. How to organize Internet access over a local network so that each device connected to the network can have access to the global Internet. We will also look at how to create a wireless local area network over Wi-Fi.

Local network between computers

In order to combine several computers into a local network, it is used special device — switch (switch).

The switch has several connectors - ports, to which, using a special cable twisted pair UTP-5e connects computers or other devices. The twisted pair is crimped on both sides with special RJ-45 connectors. This wiring technology is called ethernet.

Internet connection via local network

There is a concept local computer LAN networks , it is internal, we discussed how to create it above. Also exists global computer network WAN, it is external.

Let's look at how to connect devices connected to our local network to the global Internet. To from each individual device of our home network ( desktop computer, laptop, network media player, TV) we could have access through our Internet provider to the global Internet.

For this, a special device is used - router (router).

The router has separate port WAN to which the twisted pair cable from the ISP is connected. Through this port, our local network is connected to the global Internet.

Also, depending on the model, the router has several LAN ports for connecting LAN devices. Usually these are four or more ports.

In the general case, one router is enough to create a local network and organize its access to the Internet. If the ports for connecting devices internal network LAN is not enough, then you need to additionally use a switch.

In the figure below, I just showed the option when some of the devices are connected through a router, and some through a switch.

The cable from the ISP is connected to the WAN port of the router. Our router has four ports for connecting four LAN devices.

We want to connect:

- three computers; — network drive NAS; — TV with the ability to connect to the Internet; — perhaps in the future something else.

We connect a monoblock computer and a network drive to the LAN ports of the router, leave one port as a reserve for the future, and connect the remaining free port with a twisted pair cable to a free switch port.

We connect a stationary computer, laptop and TV to the free ports of the switch.

If you need to connect several more devices to the local network, but there are not enough free ports on the switch, add another switch and connect these devices to it. This option can be useful when organizing a local computer network in a cottage, when a separate switch can be installed on each floor.

I want to note that in our example, you can purchase a router for more ports and connect all devices on the local network to it. Then you don't need a switch.

Such a configuration using a router will allow each device connected to the local network to access the Internet via one channel from the Internet provider.

Wireless LAN over Wi-Fi

Above, we examined the topology of building a wired local area network. But today there are more and more devices with the ability to connect to the network wirelessly. WiFi technologies. First of all, these are tablets and smartphones. How to create a local network via Wi-Fi? To do this, you need to connect a special device to a free port of our router or switch using a compressed twisted pair cable - wifi hotspot.

It will allow you to exchange information between all devices connected to the local network both via wired Ethernet technology and via wireless wifi. In addition, we get the opportunity to access the Internet from our tablets and smartphones.

If Wi-Fi coverage is not enough, you can expand it by adding another access point.

Recently, widespread in apartments and small offices have received wifi router s, they combine a router and a wireless access point in one housing. How to create a local wifi network I examined the router in detail in the video, and also considered several more schemes for creating a local network, which are not considered in this article.

Watch the video: Local network at home via the Internet

The following publications will be devoted to the architecture (diagrams and layout) of an apartment low-current shield, including a computer network. What is installed where, what cables are pulled where, what equipment is used. Therefore, I recommend subscribing to the newsletter, there is a lot of interesting things ahead! Subscription form at the bottom of the article.

There are many reasons why you need to access your own local network from the global Internet: someone needs to connect in order to be able to view remote files and folders, some need access to security systems, cameras and other objects, someone » web server and doesn't want to pay for hosting, and someone needs advice on setting up a computer with a remote connection. There are many reasons, as well as solutions to the problem.

Formulation of the problem

According to network theory, to access the resources of a server or a single computer, two main parameters are used - this is the IP address and the port on which the service is running, providing a connection to the resource using a specific protocol. Therefore, a conscious configuration of the router, computer and server is necessary to ensure joint work and correct access.

By generally accepted standards, access for each protocol occurs through the following ports:

• Web server or access via HTTP protocol. Remote connection is provided via TCP ports 80 and 8080.
• Secure data transfer to the web server - port 443.
• The main protocol for file transfer or FTP uses port 21.
• A secure protocol for access from an SSH terminal on port 22. Typically used to perform device settings.
• An open protocol for connecting to a remote TCP terminal is port 23.
• Access to mail servers SMTP and POP3 use ports 25 and 110 respectively.

Specialized programs use their own ports, for example, to access the Internet from the local network using a VNC program, you need to open port 5900, Radmin - 4899, and to connect to the built-in remote desktop service Windows desktop(RDC) - 3389.

It is worth noting that opening ports on the server adds vulnerabilities and attracts attackers. Therefore, ports are opened only as needed, i.e. if there is no need to use protocol access, then the port used by the service must be closed. It is good practice to deny access to any service initially, and adjust access to the service as needed. Particularly vulnerable are ports that do not provide for user authorization, for example, port 21 in Windows is open by default, which allows unauthorized connections.

After they have been determined specific goals, i.e. why and what resources you need access to, you can start setting up remote access.

Router Configuration - Address Translation

Address translation or forwarding is necessary for the router to switch the internal local address to the external one. This means that when connecting, the IP that "looks" on the Internet will be indicated. The external IP address can be “gray” (dynamic) or “white” (static), but the specifics of configuring the router for each of the cases are beyond the scope of the article, so the setting on a static address will be used as an example.

Access is configured using the example Zyxel router Keenetic family with firmware version v2. This router is well suited for the implementation of the tasks. To complete the configuration, you need to go through the web interface to the configuration page.

The computer connects to the router via DHCP. This means that each time it is requested to add to the network, it receives a new IP address. To provide access to the local network via the Internet, it is necessary to assign an IP to each device. This is done on home page in the tab " home network» by pressing the green arrow (when hovering, a hint appears - “Assign an IP address to a device”).

Next, in the configuration, the "Security" menu item and the "Network Address Translation" tab are selected. On this tab, you need to add a rule for accessing and broadcasting a socket to the Internet for each selected service. A socket is a combination of an IP address and a port number, such as 192.168.1.1:8080, to connect to a Web server.

In the window that opens by clicking the "Add rule" button, you need to specify specific fields for creating a rule:

• "Interface" - WAN interface is selected from the drop-down list. There may be several options to choose from depending on the settings of the provider: PPTP, PPPoE, L2TP or ISP (Broadband Connection).
• "Protocol" - a protocol is selected from the list for remote connection incoming connections.
• "Redirect to address" - specifies the local address of the machine for which you want to redirect.
• "New Destination Port Number" is the local port number of the specified computer.

These steps must be performed for each device on the local network and for each protocol, i.e. each device and service on it will have a separate rule. Don't forget to click the "Save" button. After everything the right rules will be added, you can start setting up a specific computer.

Setting up access on a Windows computer

To configure a computer, you need to open ports on it for incoming connections. This is done in the standard delivery program " Windows Firewall". The program is launched from "Control Panel - System and Security - Firewall" or "Start - Run - cmd - firewall.cpl".

Ports are opened as follows:

• In the program, you need to select the menu item "Additional options".
• A new window will open that will allow you to configure advanced computer protection settings.
• When you click the "Rules for incoming connections - Create rule" button, a modal dialog "Wizards for creating a rule" opens.
• The first item of the dialog allows you to select the type of rule: for a specific program (usually, when installing the program, they add rules on their own for correct operation), for the port, predefined rules and custom rules.
• You need to select the "For port" radio button.
• The protocol type is selected (TCP or UDP), and a specific port or range of ports separated by a hyphen is entered in the corresponding field.
• After selecting the port, the rule itself is created, i.e. connection is allowed or denied. In our case, when opening the port, you need to put the switch in front of "Allow connection".
• Profile is defined network connection. You can check the boxes next to all profiles.
• On the last paragraph you need to come up with a name for the rule and click "Finish".

This opens a port on the computer. Similarly, as in a router, you need to create a separate rule for each port. In order not to add access to each port, you can disable the firewall completely, but this is strongly discouraged.

Configuring access using third-party programs

To access a local network from the Internet when using third-party specialized programs, usually no special knowledge or skills are required. It is enough that the program be installed on the client machine and run on the server. In some cases, you will need to open the address for translation on the router.

An example is popular program teamviewer. It allows you to connect to a remote desktop, transfer and download files and other functions. To connect, it is enough to know the UserID and password of the computer to which you want to connect.