Very slow internet connection

My internet connection had about 20-30 KB/s ... now I installed Windows Server 2003 on a computer, and Windows XP on my workstation. The Windows 2003 computer has 2 NICs, the internet gateway, and the network (cross-wire) cable with the XP computer (ICS activated). The speed of my internet connection on both computers is about 3-4 KB/s...
I heard that Windows 2003 may reserve some bandwidth for other services...

 

Which is the ICS host and which the client?

You'll probably be happier spending a few bucks for a router/switch and getting rid of ICS. That way the router controls the whole thing. Faster, fewer problems, and possibly the best $50 you will ever spend. At that price you can also get the device with a good hardware firewall built in that will protect all your PCs and isn't subject to being crippled by a piece of malware.