What is the easiest and cheapest way to network 2 home computers

[tossy]

Ok ive got 2 comps one is a dual pent 3 cpu server with windows 2000 the other is a reg pent 4 with windows xp.
i wish to connect them both not for internet just for file shareing and playn games,what is the easiest & cheapest way to do this i am a noob so could some explain this to me like im a retard without any jargon keep it plain a simple.....thnx

[HairyMonkeyMan]

Option 1: Get a cat5 crossover cable (ask in maplins/radio shack)... plug into network card on both machines... Gives quickest connection

Option 2: Network switch (if you need to connect more than 1 machine to the server).. plug one end into the server, then a regular cat5 cable into the switch and into your computer.

Option 3: Through a router. Get a router setup and either wireless or cat5 into it with both machines.

Option 4: Go oldschool with a parallel or serial cable.
Any joy

[Edders]

There is another version of option 4 on HairyMonkeyMan's excellent list - there are also special USB cables available on the market that allow you to build some kind of network between the two systems.