xp home NIC problems i think

[jseidel]

To answer your first question, I'm guessing the 3 network connections are these:
1. Via Rhine II Fast Ethernet
2. 1394 Connection (Which is firewire)
3. Internet Gateway
The Internet Gateway connection is created when you install your router software by windows. The firewire connection may be used if you have the correct cable . . . the RJ-45 plug will not fit in the firewire outlet, different shape and size. In your case you may ignore it but it may show as connected even though nothing is plugged into it. In my case I disabled the 1394 port in Control Panel to prevent conflict with the Via Ethernet adapter. You can verify the 3 network connections by going to Control Panel and clicking on the Network Connections icon. Mostly you should leave them alone as they are normal but if you are having problems, disable the 1394 connection and be sure the Via Rhine is set as the default in Control Panel.
Alternately, a secondary PCI network card may be installed on the machine for wireless. That could also be the 3rd connection and would show in Control Panel as such.
As for connecting PC to PC, the regular Cat cable will not work. You need a crossover cable to do that. Basically a crossover cable has wires on one RJ-45 connector reversed (crossed over) to make the PC to PC connection. With regular Cat cable the wires on each end are the same. So, when you plug in PC to PC it does not detect the connection. Crossover cables are available at most computer and office supply stores located with the regular Cat cable. The cable is the same, the ends are different and that makes it work.
Most routers have 4 wired ports to connect that many PC's hardwired. With good quality routers costing $50 US I would say it is time for an upgrade in your case to suit your needs.
J.