For a good grounding in ethernet wiring(which has great deal to do with what you're trying to do here) take a look at http://www.linksys.com/faqs/default.asp?fqid=20 for wiring basics. TCP/IP is a bit trickier (and by this I mean A LOT TRICKIER) to sum up succinctly.

I agree with Tony, why not use USB while learining about ethernet & TCP/IP? When you're ready to tinker a bit more, try again.

However, if you _really_ want to use ethernet and can't get it sorted out, a hardware firewall/NAT/router/hub is the thing you should get. Installation is pretty straightforward (for the most part). It then takes care of issues like assigning your empeg a TCP/IP address, detecting which type of cable you have & adjusting accordingly as well as providing _much_ greater security than you have now with your W98 box exposed directly to the Internet.

For good background on home routers/firewalls take a look at http://www.practicallynetworked.com/pg/hw_router_bkgrounder.htm . Their information is pretty up to date & (as far as I can tell) unbiased.

-Zeke