connection sharing for dummies

[picazzo]

Hello, I've got an XP desktop using Cox cable modem.When I hooked up the connection although I have an ethernet plug on my desktop(newer Gateway 500series) I was unable to connect to the internet this way and was directed by Cox support to use USB connection. Well this worked fine and have had no problems .
My problem is now my son is home from college and I'd like to set up a simple internet connection sharing network.As I started looking at my options I am confused as all routers I see use ethernet etc...
Of course Cox is no help at all as they want $200 to set up a home network plus a monthly charge .Now I would gladly spend 200 dollars on networking equipment if I knew what was needed...I guess I just don't want to give Cox more dough than I already am.
I wonder if anybody can shed some light on what I need to do to simply share my connection. We do not need to file share or any of that. I'd simply like to get my son on the internet.
Thanx.

[pave_spectre]

If the XP machine has an ethernet port free then the cheapest option is to configure ICS on that machine and just have a network card in the other computer. If it's also likely to be a temporary arrangement this might also be the way to go.

If you were to buy a router you would just need a something that specified cable support, (and most I have seen are both cable/dsl capable), but I dont know if they can support USB cable modems, which would mean you would probably need to figure out the ethernet option.

[PrntRhd]

Here is a good ICS link for XP: practically networked (http://www.practicallynetworked.com/sharing/xp_ics/)

And MS link: MS ICS (http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/using/howto/networking/ics.asp)

[picazzo]

Yes I can see I need to resolve my ethernet issue.....Thanx for the info and good links.

[Steve]

Can you post the brand and model of your modem?

:)

[picazzo]

I have resolved the ethernet issue thru Gateway support. A simple driver update has resolved the problem.
Now I'm ready for a router.....Thanx to all for your help!

[picazzo]

Well here is another dumb question;
I have to make a long cable to connect the above network....anyway I have got enough cable and connectors but I'm not sure if this should be a "crossover type" on one end or just a straight through cable?
Seems to me that either would work but if a crossover end is better I'd just assume do it. Or am I just being anal about the whole thing ?
I'd appreciate any suggestions.

[classicsoftware]

I persoanlly use Linksys, look here (http://www.linksys.com/products/product.asp?grid=34&scid=29&prid=561).

As for the cable, how long of a run is it? You can buy a pre-ended cable up to 100 feet.

[PrntRhd]

I have to make a long cable to connect the above network....anyway I have got enough cable and connectors but I'm not sure if this should be a "crossover type" on one end or just a straight through cable?

You want to use standard patch cables with a router, unless you get one of the new types that can use either one, they are easier to find in different lengths than crossover cables too.

[picazzo]

Thanx.Made a set of standard cables as PrntRhd suggested.....works great.
Again,Thank You all.