Ok, to all you pro networkers out there you'll probably get a good laugh out of this. I don't know much about networking myself. I know enough about computers to build one, and fix one (most of the time anyways LOL) but when it comes to networking i'm a noob. haha. So here are my questions: 1> Can i network two computers by running network cables from the ethernet ports on both PCs? If so, will they both be able to share my cable internet which would be connected to one of the PCs by USB. 2> If that is not possible, can I hook my cable modem up to one PC using ethernet and to the other using USB, so that they can both use the internet simultaneously (sp?) Thanks in advance, and my appologies in advance to those of you who may think i am a complete idiot at this point LOL Got to learn somehow, right? Michi ~everyone starts somewhere~

Option one is the best one. You need a crossover cable to hook the two computer together. This is the same as a standard Ethernet cable but the plugs are wired differently. Get the Internet working on the host computer then Install Internet connection sharing. This will configure the host computer to act like a router/DHCP server. Configure the other computer as a client by setting Obtain IP address automatically. It will then get its IP address from the host computer. The Help files give loads of info on setting up Internet Connection Sharing. Stuart

Stuart, Thanks for the reply :) My idea seemed like logically it made sence, but for some reason it seemed a little too simple to actually work. I am really excited that it will work. What I dont understand however, is why would people buy a router to use to network their computers if you can just do it that way? Thanks again Michi ~everyone starts somewhere~

You have to use a router once you have more than two computers you want to network. I have 4 computers at home all connected to a router so we can share files and the internet. You could use a router so you can use the internet on any computer when the other one is off, at the moment the computer which is connected to the modem has to be on for the other computer to get the net. Mattwizz3 : ) Sempron 2600+ @ 2.2GHz 1Gb DDR400 Asus A7N8X-E Deluxe 200GB SATA 2X 80Gb IDE 256Mb MSI 6800 Ultra

With the Internet Connection Sharing method both PC's need to be on, with a Router each PC is independent.

In addition to the comments above with a router you have the added benefit of a firewall and routers do tend to be more reliable. With the ICS you need to a software firewall in operation plus ICS can be a bit problematic at times. Stuart

Listen to StuartS on this. :-) "Enough, enough bowing down to disillusion! Hats off & applause to rogues & evolution! The ripple effect is too good not to mention. If you’re not affected, you’re not paying attention!"