Q I have a desktop, a notebook and a single printer. Is there any way to use both computers with the printer without having to swap cables constantly? I do not use the internet.

A The best solution here is to set up a wireless network either with the printer connected to the desktop printer or with its own connection to the network.

As the internet is not required, it is possible to set up an ad-hoc network to avoid the cost of a wireless router. All that is required is a wireless adapter for each computer and the notebook may already have one fitted.

On the desktop computer left-click on the Start button and select Control Panel. Left-click on the Network and Internet Connections icon and then on Set up a wireless network for a home or small office in the task pane on the left-hand side of the window.

Click on Next and then give the network a name. It’s best not to use anything that might identify you specifically such as 12ShortLane because that might attract hackers and make it easier for them to access your network.

If possible, check the box at the bottom that says Use WPA encryption instead of Wep. WPA is a better way of preventing unauthorised access to your network but you will need to make sure that all the network adapters can use it.

Click on the Next button and then select which method you will use to copy the settings onto the other computer. Using a USB key is the easiest option as the wizard will create a program on it that can be run on the other computer to finish setting up the network. Click on Next and plug the USB key into the computer. Make sure the correct drive letter is selected and click on Next. The program will be copied onto the USB key so you can take it to the other computer.
Insert the USB key into the other computer and run the software to connect to the network.