Use an infrared network connection

Applies To: Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2003 R2, Windows Server 2003 with SP1, Windows Server 2003 with SP2

To use an infrared network connection

  1. Establish an infrared link by aligning your computers so that the infrared transceivers are within 1 meter (approximately 40 inches) of each other, and the transceivers are pointing at each other. For more information, see Related Topics.

  2. Open Network Connections.

  3. Double-click the connection that you want to use to access the network.

  4. Verify that the connection information is correct, and then click OK.

  5. On the File menu, click Connect.

Important

  • To enhance security, align infrared devices so that the infrared transceivers are between 0.1 meter (approximately 4 inches) and 0.5 meter (approximately 20 inches) apart whenever you establish an infrared link between two devices. Although there can be up to 1 meter (approximately 40 inches) between infrared transceivers without a loss in data transfer capability, if you place the transceivers closer to each other, you minimize the risk of interference from an attacker. To further enhance security, ensure that all infrared devices and data sources are trustworthy, and, if you are transferring infrared data with another person, conduct the transfer in a private location whenever possible. For more information about infrared security considerations, see Related Topics.

Notes

  • Performing this task does not require you to have administrative credentials. Therefore, as a security best practice, consider performing this task as a user without administrative credentials.

  • To open Network Connections, click Start, click Control Panel, and then double-click Network Connections.

  • In the Windows Server 2003 family, only Windows Server 2003, Standard Edition, supports infrared networking.

  • When you make a network connection over infrared, the infrared link takes the place of a cable. You do not need to use a serial or parallel cable.

Information about functional differences

  • Your server might function differently based on the version and edition of the operating system that is installed, your account permissions, and your menu settings. For more information, see Viewing Help on the Web.

See Also

Concepts

Establish an infrared link
Security information for infrared communication
Establish a direct infrared network connection between computers
Make a dial-up connection using an infrared-enabled cellular phone
Network Connections