Quote Originally Posted by gnukish
For connecting u might need a cheap switch/hub (8 port hub) recommended, or go for single crossover ethernet cables.
Cost less than, hub/switch also economical, but prevents the network from enlarging further.
Just putting my 2 cents worth on networking in. Yes, a switch is a better choice that cross over cables. If the system is or will be on a high speed connection, a router with a built-in 4 port switch is even a better choice. It will provide a number of benefits including Internet connection sharing, firewall, and more. If needed, ports an be expanded beyond the 4 wired ports on a router with switches or hubs. Switches are almost always the better choice, except in one case. A hub will let you "sniff the wire" and examine packets in a way that a switch will not. It can be handy to do this to solve some complex networking problems, or just to learn more about networking protocols. Yes, there is good packet sniffing software right in Knoppix (ethereal) that you can do this with. And I would hire someone who can actualy solve problems by getting out sniffing software and examining packets over someone who memorized answers for a certification test any day of the week.

As for switches, 5 port switches are currently dirt cheap and usually cost less per useable port than 8 port switches. And give you more flexabaily in location, I suggest most users who don't reason to do otherwise buy 5 port switches. If you have particular network needs that merit 8 port (or larger) switches, you'll know it.

Recently I've seen swtiches as low as $10 (US) and routers with built in switches as low as $5, after rebate. And the routers even usually include one network cable that some sellers might try to charge you that much for just for the cable!