Network Connections provides connectivity between your computer and the Internet, a network, or another computer. With Network Connections, you can configure settings to reach local or remote network resources or functions.

Network Connections combines Microsoft® Windows® NT 4.0 Dial-Up Networking with features that were formerly located in the Network Control Panel, such as network protocol and service configuration. Each connection in the Network Connections folder contains a set of features that creates a link between your computer and another computer or network. By using Network Connections, performing a task, such as modifying a network protocol, is as easy as right-clicking a connection and then clicking Properties.

• Before using Network Connections, see Checklist: Configuring network connections.
  
  
• Before setting up a home or small office network, see Checklist: Setting up a home or small office network.
  
  
• To find features that have been moved, see New ways to do Network Connections tasks.
  
  
• For tips about using Network Connections, see Network Connections Best Practices.
  
  
• For help with specific tasks, see Network Connections How To....
  
  
• For general background information, see Network Connections Concepts.
  
  
• For problem-solving instructions, see Network Connections Troubleshooting.