How create a home network using Linux and Windows?

[John Morris]

I virtually know nothing abt networks but have
acquired a second PC for the home just so I can
play around and learn a little at home.

First off..... if both machines have Windows on
it.... it is possible to use a direct cable
connection to create a network and NOT need
network cards. True?

If true.... does the above hold for ALL versions
of windows? IOW.... can one machine have Win 3.1
on it and the other Win 95 and still be cabled
direct? Or must they BOTH be Win 95 machines??

OK... what abt Win NT4 service pack 3? Can you
directly cable that to another PC with say Win 95
on it?

Bottom line.... is direct cable something that can
only be done if both machines are Win 95 or 98?

Now..... suppose I wanna put Linux on one
machine.... and leave some form of Windows (95,
98, NT) on the other??

In this case will I definitely need network cards
or can they be cabled direct somehow??

Bottom line..... is there some advantage to using
network cards even tho one could use direct cable?
If yes.... what kinda network cards do I need?