BUILD A NETBEUI NETWORK

You could build your ICS-enabled network directly by wiring together some computers, installing a MODEM and TCP/IP, installing ICS and stepping through the ICS wizard.  I don't recommend it and it probably won't work out-of-the-box.  To encounter the least amount of probable pain, I recommend that you follow these general steps:

• Install Win 98 SE on at least one computer.

• Install your MODEM with the TCP/IP protocol, and configure and test it on the Internet.

• Build your network and test it with the NetBEUI protocol.

• Install TCP/IP for the network adapters.

• Remove the NetBEUI protocol to reduce overhead.

• Install and test ICS (according to this article).

• Install any additional protocols you may need.

  Install Win 98 SE on at least one computer.

  Install your MODEM and configure it for the Internet.  You have probably already done this, or you have an operating Internet connection if you are reading this article on-line.

  Build a NetBEUI network following my instructions in the following article:

How to Network Two Windows 95/98 Computers

If you are networking more than two computers, I recommend buying a Fast Ethernet Hub, connect your computers to the Hub with a straight-through cables, and follow the rest of the article on networking two computers.

See my article on making network cables for advise on making, buying, and installing network cables.

If you are using all 100 Mhz Fast Ethernet adapters (recommended), the hub doesn't have to be fancy with auto-sensing or capable of NWay auto-negotiation.
The Philex 75080BQ is a good example of a low-cost, 5-port hub which works well.  It has more features than you need, but it hubs like it are becoming common place.  Philex also supplies eight and 16-port version of this hubs.  If you already have a 2-computer network with a crossover cable and you are going to add a third computer and hub, don't throw away the crossover cable.  Most hubs have one port which can be configured for a crossover cable.

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