pyotr filipivich wrote:

I have a network cable, but apparently one cannot simply plug it
into the two ports on computers and make a simple home network. Now
_that_ is dumb. I'm updating the Sneakernet protocols to work with a
thumb drive. "Windows - it just works."

Pins 1,2,3,6 irc are what the signal goes in and out on. You need a cross over cable.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ethernet_crossover_cable .

Actually a hub or multiport repeater would be easiest.

Wes

--
"Additionally as a security officer, I carry a gun to protect
government officials but my life isn't worth protecting at home
in their eyes." Dick Anthony Heller