home network question

[grimreaper]

Ok here's the deal
I have internet on cable and I just got a second PC and I want to be able to connect to the internet on both machines at the same time, as well I would like to have a mini-network just between the two PC's so that I can share files.
Is that possible
Thanks for the help

[brembo]

Router is the way to go. You will get lots of opinions on what kind of router to buy, but I doubt there really is much difference in a Netgear/Linksys. Just get the one that has the appropriate number of ports and plug it up and go! My Linksys 4 port took me about 15 mins to get hooked up and online. Its a pseudo firewall as well, makes it difficult for MOST people to hack ya.

Another way to go is the direct cable connection built into windows. I have very little experience in this realm, but I don't like what I saw in that small stint I did use it. Router is cheap and quite effective IMO. Keep bumping this thread, someone who knows loads more than me will really help ya out.

[JackMDS]

The Basic Options to Share Internet Connection (Internet Sharing 101) (http://forums.anandtech.com/arcmessageview.cfm?catid=36&threadid=369286&highlight_key=y&keyword1=sharing)

Hubs, routers, switches, DSL, LANs, WANs...?] (http://www.anandtech.com/guides/viewfaq.html?i=48)

[needspeed99]

sounds good
thanks for all the help