set up simple network

crossover cat 5 cable. both belong to the same workgroup, share folders and printers with permissions for all users, users have accounts on both machines.

I would recommend something like a D-Link router with an integrated switch (DI-604). Just plugged in both PC's with a "patch" ethernet cable to their network connectors and your Internet connection into your "WAN" port on the D-link. Without any further configuration they will likely be on the same network with Internet access once restarted. Then follow this link to allow for open file and print sharing access and you should be laughing (it even has a video of step by step):

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;304040

Zaf

get a switch hub, rg45 network cable, connect it all, then klik start-my network places-setup home/small office network on both pc

demonhunter

take a RJ45 crossover cable connect to the network card configure the network as follows
common workgroup name
different ip address like 192.168.100.1 & 192.168.100.2
share the required file & folder
restart the system & ur network is up & workig

Hi. If you are a beginner in networks, then i would prefer a simple solution. Buy one CROSS network cable. Then install both network cards in both computers. Then in control panel in windows XP click 'Network Connections' then 'New connection wizard' or something like that, i do not know exact text because i use a different language in my WXP. Then just do what the wizard tells you, and if he allow you a choice 'create network setup disk' then choose that and give on diskette in your d. drive. setup will copy there a one file, which you will lauch on other computer, and that's it. the network will work.