Need recommendations for home network

[DZip]

I want to network 3 pc's so they can share files. I am playing with LINUX so that in the future I may set up a server. What is the better networking solution? HPNA 2.0 or an Ethernet hub (Linksys network in a box). I have to run the cable for either one (no phone jacks upstairs).

System 1: Athlon 1.33 GHz, 256mb DDR memory, (2) 20 GB hard drives, W98SE and Linux Mandrake 8.2 (would like to upgrade to XP when they get finished fixing all the bugs and holes).

System 2: P133, 128mb PC100 memory, 4.2 GB hard drive, W98Se

System 3: 486 DX2, 32mb memory, 1.5 GB hard drive, W95 (original edition)

 

[doug]

Ethernet is faster and can be done cheaper as well as having upgrade paths (10Mbps or 100Mbps now, Gigabit later if you use good Cat5e or better cable, I don't think Cat6 or higher are real standards yet so you can't go by that).

 

[techshock]

yep i would also do ethernet. much better performance and probably alittle bit cheaper.
you could also do wireless, but that will make ur costs go way up and you will loose performance over an ethernet solution.
though with wireless there are no cables to worry about!
but ya, get ethernet.

 

[CollegeGuy]

Welcome to the year 2002, thou shalt use Ethernet.