I have to confess that I'm not too familiar with XP but I have used Network Interface Cards in a variety of OSs. I'll know more after tomorrow!
If XP is like W2000, and it should be, you can install TCP/IP on the NIC, excluding File sharing on the Dial Up Adapter. Indeed, most networks use IP addressing and TCP/IP protocol for day to day comms.
DLC = Data Link Control used a lot on Win NT and W2000 for printer comms but can be used between Peer to Peer network nodes. I use it on the standard network (Co-axial cable) but have never used it on a Cat 5 X-over cable without a hub.
I cam back to remind about creating "shares" but that's already been covered well by FbW.
[ 21 January 2002: Message edited by: fobotcso ]</p>