Networking two P.Cs in Win2000

I need to network two computers running win2000. I am using RJ45 cabling with compatibable interface network cards. Installing the cards and making a cable crossover is no problem. However,I am not sure how to set up the protocols in 2000. I have been advised to use NetBEUI, how do I configure this correctly, which win2000 features should I use to configure printer and file sharing. I appreciate this is a very simple question, however I have just started a computing course. Detailed answers would be appreciated!