Networks Cable's / Router / Linux advice needed plz

Just got my router up and running fine with my cable modem and computer , Jus checking will it be okay if i use a cat 5 crossover cable from the router to another computer?
I am using cat5 cable on this comp to router and jus need to know if its alrite for a crossover cable to be used also

And another thing ,
I want to put linux damn small on a **** comp and have it has a http server , will i be able to share files and communicate with the linux box from any of the other comps on the network which are windows boxes . and generally , will the linux box be able to use the net provided by the router / modem ?

If you need any hardware / software specs , jus ask

Thanks in advance

 

You would generally just use a normal "straight through" patch lead from teh computer to the router. It may work it depends on the switch in the router. If your having no joy getting connected it's the first thing I would change.

 

If i understand you correctly then yes the cable is fine. As for linux, i havent tried it yet but i have read from quite a few places that they are interworkable.

 

You need a straight-thru cable, but the switch may be an auto-sensing model, in which case you can use either.

Share files between boxes - yes
Communicate - see above
Linux able to use the net from router - of course

 

Yes, windows and linux work just fine using samba (just google it)

edit: art beat me to it

seeing as how most of the 'net is run on it

 

Thanks guys , jus need to pick up some pile of crap off a friend and stick linux on it ,
gonnay mod that ofcourse , shall post stuff when i get all my computers modded

thanks again !

 

Just thought id give an update , cat5 crossover cables work perfect with the router also
I just put my computer dumb mum online on the bbc antiques website on a computer tha hasnt been turned on in ages , lol instantly , netgear routers rule

 

Glad it's all going smooth mate