[phreekachu]

Howdy,

I'm new to setting up networks, so I have a question or two.

I have to setup two win98 machines for my father, one box and one notebook. If i don't need to share an internet connection, am i going to need a router to connect the two? Or is there a way to do file-sharing between the two using just a pair of network cards. I haven't bought the pcmcia network card for the notebook card, but the one i'm looking at is a belkin, it and the netgear card in the pc are both ethernet ieee 802.3/3u compatible, so i know they will be able to talk to eachother. I just don't know if i absolutely need a router to connect the two of if a basic card to card connection between the network cards would work just as well. (damn i just need to learn to network actually!)

Any suggestions would help. I'm mainly just looking for an easy way to help him file share without floppies.

thanks much

phreekachu

[Silver-Dagger]

If all you are going to do is connect the two machines then all you will need is the two NIC's and a crossover cable. But, if there is a posibility of even one more machine being added then drop the crossover cable and get a hub and patch cables. You mentioned a router. This would be WAY more then you need unless you wated to share an internet connection.

BTW a networking book would not hurt but the best way to start learning networking is to just setup a small network of your own.

[phreekachu]

thanks much!!!! i appreciate the speedy reply. i just found out that he has an old router, so if he ever needs upgrading than we'll be okay, beyond that i'll just grab that nic,

much appreciated

phreekachu