[AlwaysUp]

The Cat5 cable that you most likely have is what is generally referred to as patch cable. What RJ says is correct, if you are just wanting to connect two PC's you are going to need what is called crossover cable. The difference is that the conductor pinouts are configured that enables direct NIC to NIC data transfer. I bet a boatload that you have patch cable but need to get crossover cable. Ask at your local Office Depot or Staples or Best Buy, Fry's ect...get the floorperson and specifically ask for crossover network cable. When you are sure you have the right cable, then post back and we'll be more than glad to assist. There is another way to do this that adds some additional flexibility. That is to invest in an inexpensive 10/100 hub, possibly a 4port for expansion. Then you can use the cable you have now, but would need one more to go from the second PC to the hub. This is a better setup than direct cabled, IMHO.