question about home networking

[judgebao]

Hi all, I got 2 questions:
1. I want to share internet connection between 2 computers (with cable modem). Can I just connect the 2 computers with a cat 5 cable (both computers have NIC). If I could, does the ISP sees only 1 IP or 2 IPs (both of them used together)?
2. If the solution above works. Let's say comp A is the server (connected to cable modem). Can comp B get an internet connection if comp A is off.

Thank You,

 

[JimMc]

This has been asked before, I think :Q, but this place Practically Networkedhas the best info on your question.

Basically, a 3 NIC setup is the easiest way to go unless you get a cable router due to the IP issue you mention.