Got cable internet and two PCs. Want both to be online. I've seen three options:

1. ICS (Internet Connection Sharing) in Windows — free but ties up one PC
2. Hardware router like Linksys BEFSR41 — $60ish
3. Hub + proxy software

What's the most reliable approach? I don't want to babysit it.

Get the Linksys router. Set it up once and forget about it. ICS works but the host PC has to be on all the time and it adds latency.

Linksys BEFSR41 is bulletproof. I've had mine for 8 months with zero issues. The built-in DHCP and NAT firewall is a nice bonus too.

If you ever want to go wireless, the Linksys WAP11 access point works great with the router. Future-proofing!