Networking 2 computers

[cuog]

A friend of mine is coming over sunday to play some CS as we havent played in forever, due to both of our crappy internet connections. I need to connect the 2 computers into a mini-network so we can play some head to head.

Heres what i have to use, what would be best?
- 2 CAT5e cables, maybe 3
- 2 Computers running XP Pro both with dual NICs
- 1 Computer with XP Home

What I would like to do is use one of the computers as a dedicated server to run the game then have the other 2 connect.

Can I just connect the 2 computers to the "server" with CAT5 cables and call it a day?

I also may be able to use the family router, but i would not be able to connect it to the internet as the modem is accross the house(will it stil work as a network switch?)

Any help is great, Im still learning this networking stuff so feel free to teach me as much as you want.

[glc]

Can I just connect the 2 computers to the "server" with CAT5 cables and call it a day?

No.

I also may be able to use the family router, but i would not be able to connect it to the internet as the modem is accross the house(will it stil work as a network switch?)

Yes.

However, you can buy a cheap switch for 20 bucks.

Plug them all into the switch with CAT5.

[telegramsam]

Your family router likely has switch ports in it already...connect it to the modem. Then you can call it a day. But weren't you going to game first? :)

[glc]

He said the modem and router are presently on the other side of the house from where this is going to be set up.

[cuog]

Thanks GLC, I'll just try and convince my mom to let me use the router then. I would just get a switch but i dont think it could get here in time.

[ITlover]

Well, I think the cheapest and easiest way to make a small home network is to use a switch.
I think the Server should have 2 NIC cards , 1 to be used for connecting the Server with internet service and another to be used for connecting the Server with the switch.

And then connecting other two client PCs with the other side of the switch through cable which will make a small home network. Each client computers should have only 1 NIC card.

I think a cable modem is useful in this senario.

[glc]

IT, please review the whole thread. Your solution is not even close to being feasible.

Cuog, you can buy cheap switches at most retail stores. Best Buy sells 5 port D-Links for 25 bucks for example.