Best way to network 2 computers??

one of our clients have their two laptops connected together via a crossover cable and frequently have network disconnection issues - on their behalf we've checked the cables, the firewall etc but have to put the problem down to the network interface on one of the workstations.

with regards to networking two computers together is it generally better to use straighthrough cables and go into a small 4 port switch or is it just the same using a crossover cable between the two computers?

 

No difference.

 

Actually there is a small difference.

There is a small lag between when a packet of information come into a switch and when the switch forwards the packet. The lag corresponds to the time taken for the switch to receive enough information to decide which port to forward the packet to.

With a cross over cable directly between two PC you miss out the switch lag - therefore it is a little quicker.

However, the lag is very small and usually doesn't outweigh the convenience of using a switch.

 

easiest and fastest way

A router or switch is the easiest way .
( use the 4 port area of the router the lan ports)
You may want to update the network card drivers or try diffirent network cards- pcmcia or usb or wireless ( slower).