Outlook/home network questions

[pickupthismess]

I have outlook 2003 (and Windows XP)on my desktop PC and use it to route my emails from a number of sources.

I have bought a laptop (with Vista) and am about to install Windows 07. I want to use the Windows mail service (quasi Outlook) to pick up the same emails as I have on my PC Outlook. It has been suggested by PC World that I set up a Home Network but I need advice.

1. Is this really necessary? I only want to access the same Outlook account.
   
   
2. If I have to set up a network is this straightforward?
   
   
3. ditto...and are Xp ad Vista compatible or would I need the same Windows package?
   
   HELP!

[pickupthismess]

bump???

[onagar]

You could pick up the emails on both computers, but if you use POP it may take some organising. You should have the option in both email programs to choose IMAP

POP: Your computer takes a copy and tells the server to delete it at that end. Now the other PC can't get that email.

IMAP: the emails stay on the server (somewhere out there on the internet) and you view them from either computer.

More info here

You could have a home network and all modern operating systems should be able to link up, but I'm not sure that helps you really. (though you will love being able to pass files back and forth)

For that you need a modem/router which you probably have anyway The box that plugs into the wall for the internet probably has sockets for more than one PC. If both PCs are connected then you just have to run the 'Network SetUp Wizard' on each PC which will help you pick a name for your network and activate it.

Not sure what PC World had in mind. Some people make a network and set up an email server of their own on one of them. That's a bit much just to solve your immidiate problem.

Oh one thing you can do with a network is control your PC from the laptop and vice versa so that would mean you could view the emails on the other one.

[pickupthismess]

Onagar - you are my saviour (once again), so it sounds like I need to set up a network?

I currently have a WIFI plugged in downstairs and then a desktop upstairs and the laptop (also downstairs for the most part). What would I need to plug in exactly?

[pickupthismess]

Also forgot to ask but any ideas where I find a Network Steup Wizard on Vista?

[RustyBear]

Click on the Start button & one of the choices on the black menu that pops up is network. Click on that, then on Network and sharing Center on the bar at the top. You will then find the various tasks you can carry out listed on the left hand side.

[pickupthismess]

Hi it says a Local Connection Network is disconnected, do I just ignore?

[onagar]

I never had that message. Perhaps because mine are both wired not wireless. If you are online then it should be connected.

I suppose it might mean that while the wireless IS connected it has noticed that the wired connection is not. In which case I 'think' just carry on

[pickupthismess]

Thanks. I'll give it a go tomorrow.