Question : USE OF CROSSOVER CABLE TO DIRECTLY TRANSFER FILES

I have a new computer on its way to me. I have what I believe is a crossover ethernet cable which I would like to use to connect the new to the old computer to transfer files to the new one (not a permanent connection). Here are my questions: First, how can I be certain it is a crossover cable? If it is not a crossover cable, would I damage either computer by connecting them to it? If it is a crossover cable, how do I use it (i.e., settings on the two computers)?

Thank you.

Howard D. Rosen

Answer : USE OF CROSSOVER CABLE TO DIRECTLY TRANSFER FILES

It is a crossover cable if the color of the lines in the cable plug on the both side of the cable are not in same order. If they are reversed then it is a crossover cable.
If they are in the same order then it is a ordinary "straight" network cable.
So if you have a crossover cable just conect it to the both computers. You should also have a proper TCP/IP settings. Your IP numbers should be on the same subnet.
Ex. set one IP 205.70.60.1 and the other 205.70.60.2 with the 255.255.255.0 subnet mask in the TCP/IP properties.