Home Ethernet Network

I am a complet beginner with networks, and am trying to network 2 home pc's. Both use XP, both have PCI ethernet cards, and they are directly connected with CAT5 utp. Should this work? I keep getting conflicting answers from people. All I get is "media disconnected"................Help please!

Directly connecting two PCs requires a cross-over ethernet cable (this is not your "regular" ethernet). You can get them at your major stores, but I recommend a smaller store b/c you will pay a fraction of the price (I paid $5 for mine at local small store compared to $20 at Best Buy).

You can also unplug the cable, cut it in half and then connect the wires the following way:

White/Green to White/Orange
Green to Orange
White/Orange to White/Green
Orange to Green

The Brown and blue pairs are not used and don't even need to be connected.

Try to have the total splice length less than 1/2 inch.

I really wanted to have a proper ethernet network, so before I cut the wires and try that, would I be better advised to buy a hub and cable (what cable?) and do it that way?

A switch (4 port switches are available) is better than a hub. But if you are only going to have to devices, a hub is not necessary. If you plan to have more than 2 a hub or switch is mandatory. I've used most switches and hubs available and there is little difference at the SOHO end.

A crossover cable is required for 2 machines directly connected, otherwise, use a straight thru cable. They come in 2 flavors 568A and 568B. One is as good as the other, and they can be mixed in the same network; no matter what Cina says (just in case she's reading).

Many thanks. Bought an 8 port switch. I'll see how I get on!!