This may seem like a naive question at first, but I've actually tried several things, none of which seem to work. I'd like to network two XP computers, both with ethernet cards. One of them is hooked up to a DSL line, but I'd also like to know if it's possible to network two computers with neither hooked up to an internet connection. I don't need a router, do I? Do I only need a crossover cable? Or will I need an ethernet hub?

To network two computers, you just need each one to have a network interface card and then a single crossover cable between them. Reboot both machines with the cable connected and the network should be up-and-running immediately. Then you can share files and resources.

mathguy, You have stated you have two PCs both having (I guess properly configured and functional)NICs and a Cross-Over Ethernet Cable connecting the NICs and No Router or HUB. You are meeting the minumum requirement for setting up a network of two PCs. As you guessed correctly, you cannot share your DSL Internet Connection because you have no Router or Hub and Extra NIC nor the needed "straight-through Ethernet cable" Just connecting the cables will not make the LAN; you need to use the Networking software in WinXP to make the physical connection functional to share files and Printer which is the goal of most such SOHO networks. For a similar question and on going troubleshoot click here M

Thanks for the help. That was a good link you directed me to.