The network card is the integral part of the network installation: it is the basic device that allows your connection to work. That known, the choice of which network card to buy not only becomes a question of technical requirements but price and quality also. The better network card you buy, the easier your installation will be, and the better performance your network connection will have. In the computer industry big names really do mean big quality, and their reputation is on the line for every device they sell. Some big names that have good quality cards are Intel, 3Com, or Microdyne.
The card must be a 10Base-T card. This is an industry standard, so there should be no trouble in going to your favorite computer store and asking for a 10Base-T ethernet network card. The card will have one port on it that looks very similar to a telephone jack. It is also necessary for the card to have drivers for Windows 95 with it.
The patch cable is the last thing you will need to buy. It is the wire that goes from the card into the wall connection. Make sure the cable is made from Category 5 unshielded twisted pair wire and has a RJ-45 male connector on each end. It would be best to buy this with your network card so the sales person can give you one for your card.
Depending on the quality of your network card you can expect to pay anywhere between $40 and $150. The patch cord should cost no more than $10, but price will depend on the length you need.