2 PCs running WinXP, connected via crossover UTP cable. One conecting to an Internet using cable modem, other supposed to connect through first computer. I setup the network successfully all works, IC sharing, file transfer, printer sharing... And yesterday just BANG, network disappears without any real reason, and when I try to setup network again Network Setup Wizard chooses the second option as default, and when I change it to first (connecting directly to the internet) the wizard freezes...

First, its not a good idea to piggyback on someone else's thread so I've moved this to its own thread.

Second, I would recommend getting a router. ICS is very flaky and I do not recommend its use. A router will give you a faster, more stable and more secure connection. With router prices so low it doesn't make sense not to use one.