Internet Sharing Through Crossover UTP

[JC00]

I use a wired broadband connection for my main computer (laptop) but I need to occasionally run updates on my secondary computer (desktop). However, I need to have my laptop online all the time due to my work so pulling the broadband connection off of it and plugging it to the desktop isn't a practical thing to do for me.

What I want to do is to use a utp to connect the laptop and the pc together while the laptop is plugged in the broadband via usb port (the modem has an alternate usb port just in case you don't have an ethernet card).

Is it possible to make the two computers share an internet connection in this way. I don't really want to use a router to do this since I only occasionally need to have broadband on my desktop.

[JC00]

I thought it worked but it did not.

[shadowpr]

I honestly think getting a router would make things simpler, plus would provide a nice firewall.

[rjfvillarosa]

If you network the two machines together using a crossover type LAN cable you can "share" the internet connection during the setup procedure when you use the "Set up a Home or small Office network" wizard in Control Panel under the Network tab.
A router would be a far better and more secure way of doing it though.

[JC00]

Thanks.

[mojo]

One more vote for the router. For around $50 you'll have a much better and more secure setup.