Oracle Database Discussions

Hi everyone-

I am a new Oracle user and have permission to access to a remote Oracle database, however I am having issues with the initial setup/configuration! I have downloaded the Oracle Driver and Instant Client (11.2.0.2.0) because I need to use Microsoft Access for accessing the data (the Access database is already configured to the correct Oracle database). I am under the impression that to do this I need to be able to use the ODBC administrator to get all set up. Note: Im working on Windows XP.

Issues I am having:

-I don't seem to have Netca installed (which seems to be the recommended way to configure a connection). I have manually adjusted the TNSNAMES.ORA file so it corresponds with the database, but Im not sure what my next step would be.

-When I open SqlPlus it wants a user name and password, and I tried the defaults and got an error every time. Do I need to use SqlPlus first, or establish a connection through ODBC first?

- Also: ODBC requires a TNS Service name, and Im not sure where that is established; would that be something the database manager would provide?

I really just am not sure of how to set up this remote connection! I keep running into obstacles, and would really love a "step by step" reference on how to do it, if there is such a thing. Any help or additional reference material would be appreciated! I've been running through forum content, but haven't been able to decode the lingo! Thanks so much in advance.

Marilyn