configuration of the network (LAN)

Please help!I want to configure a LAN of about 10 clients. This will be my first time. I have the hub and all the accesories. There will be need for a server. The operating system on the PCs is Windows XP.After connecting the computers to the hub,
1. how do I start a network?
2. What configurations do I need to do inoder to
make the network function.
3. Do i need any other software to create the LAN
and the comunication protocals or do I just
need to go to the control panel for this. If
so what procedures do I need to follow.
Any help in this regard will help me greatly.

Honest Mwandu