The cheapest would be ICS because you already get that built-in to Windows XP. But it is not the easiest, has loads of disadvantages and no-one in their right mind would advise anyone to take ICS in preference to a router.
I don't know the modem model you have but generally you cannot use the Ethernet port to connect to one PC and the USB to another (in any case the modem cannot share the connection). I would always opt to use the Ethernet port (it's a comms port and designed and built to handle comms and the USB port is not).
As you already have an ADSL modem you just need to find a router with an Ethernet port. There are heaps. You'll get internet connection sharing (and file and printer networking is just there as a given). Each PC you want to connect needs an Ethernet card (or yo can go wireless of course, but if price is an issue then don't bother).
Try for example http://www.kelkoo.co.uk/ to find the cheapest router. Or http://www.dabs.com has routers starting at £25. Something basic will be fine. For that price ICS is just not worth the graft.
I don't know the modem model you have but generally you cannot use the Ethernet port to connect to one PC and the USB to another (in any case the modem cannot share the connection). I would always opt to use the Ethernet port (it's a comms port and designed and built to handle comms and the USB port is not).
As you already have an ADSL modem you just need to find a router with an Ethernet port. There are heaps. You'll get internet connection sharing (and file and printer networking is just there as a given). Each PC you want to connect needs an Ethernet card (or yo can go wireless of course, but if price is an issue then don't bother).
Try for example http://www.kelkoo.co.uk/ to find the cheapest router. Or http://www.dabs.com has routers starting at £25. Something basic will be fine. For that price ICS is just not worth the graft.
