I want to network my two computers. One is a MS XP computer and the other is a Windows 98 computer(though i am planning to wipe 98 and replace it with XP to make the network run smoother). These two computers are in the same room, so i don't need anything fancy. I am looking for a network solution for around $100(nothing over $130). I need a reliable fast connection. I have heard of a product called "Network In A Box", that will connect two computers, but havent found it yet. Do you have any suggestions on my networking problem?

I would just go and get a Network Cable however long you need it. Get Ethernet cards for both the PC's if you don't have them already and hook them up. Run XP's network setup on the two PC's and your good to go. If you sharing your internet I would suggest run it to the XP system and then to 98. All that wouldn't cost much at all. 100ft cable is about 30 dollars from the store and you can find network cards on the net for under $10. If you want something you can add more computers on to later. Just find a cheap network hub. If you use DSL or Cable get a router special for them. And if you have dial up go for an external modem that can also work as a hub. I think that would do it. Should be well under $100.

Note that if you're going to connect the two computers to eachother without the use of a hub, router or switch (a cable going straight from one computer's network card to the other computer's network card) you will need to use a crossover cable and not a normal patch cable...

www.helmig.com may also be of help?

While network cards are cheaper (you can find them on sale for about $10 each), you can get usb network adapters which would be much easier. You would not even have to open up the computer case. However, one or both of your computers may already have network cards in them. Many computers sold in the last 4 years have them pre-installed. Hubs are pretty cheap (you can get a basic 4-port hub for very little...$20...or less...if you look around). Having a hub will allow you to easily share a cable or dsl modem connection...if you ever get one...as well as any other network-ready device you may wish in the future.