Baby steps needed to hook up 2 computers

[daremi]

I need help in actual baby steps to hook up two computers. I am connected to the internet via cable to one computer that is running on XP and want to network another computer which is running on windows 98 and is about 20 metres away. So how do I do it? Do I first have to buy another network card for the XP computer and I definetely need another network card for the second computer which I also want it to have internet access. Then what kind of cable do I require? What is the maximum lenght of cable that can be used. And what settings do I have to change on both computers. I do not want to use a router or hub. Please any help in this matter would be greatly appreciated.

 

[DaveSimmons]

I do not want to use a router or hub.

Why not? They work well and add security to the network by hiding the PCs behind the router.

You could also use a wifi router and would not need a 20-meter cable.

 

[Matthias99]

I do not want to use a router or hub.

This is, by far, the easiest way to do it. Care to explain your reasoning?

The second easiest would probably be to put a second NIC in the system hooked up to the cable modem, and use ICS (Internet Connection Sharing) to give the second computer Internet access through the first one.

 

[imported_Kensai]

As Matthias99 said, ICS is the other easiest way, but a router or a hub is the easiest.

 

[modedepe]

Use crossover ethernet cable between the two and an ethernet card in each for this to plug into. I forget the maximum length for ethernet, but it's more than 20 meters.

 

[ksuWildcat]

As others have previously mentioned, a router would be the best and easiest choice. Plus, it would offer more security than having a PC directly connected to the modem.

Or, for the host, get a second NIC card use a crossover cable to connect the 2 machines. IMO, this is not a recommended solution for ICS.

 

[Zugzwang152]

Originally posted by: modedepe
Use crossover ethernet cable between the two and an ethernet card in each for this to plug into. I forget the maximum length for ethernet, but it's more than 20 meters.

max length for cat. 5 is 100 meters i believe.

 

[Slogun]

If cost is your consideration (and keeping in mind that linkage via router is best/easiest) I recently sold a Netgear RT314, 4 port router for $8.00.
Similar deals are readily available, and this is no more expensive than buying a second NIC for one of the comps. Configuring two NICS on one comp, not to mention ICS is no joy ride and no baby steps to be had there.

 

[l Xes l]

wire routers are cheap as dirt.....