OK guys, hope someone can point me in the right direction. I've decided it's time to teach myself networking.

First, If anyone can recommend a site that has the basics (from scratch) it would help.

What I have in mind is to start with a two system using Fast Ethernet PCI Cards and a Enhanced crossover Cat 5 UTP Patch Cable. I want to setup with win95 & win98 first, then (if successful) do it with NT and 98.
(WILL THIS WORK?)

Second, I plan on setting up a four system workgroup using NT Server 4.0, BackOffice and Win98. Plan on using an - 8 port 10 Base T Ethernet Hub and 100Base T Cat 5 Patch Cables.
(WILL THIS WORK?)

Also, what is the difference between Cat 5 patch cables and Cat 5 twisted pair cables?

All help will be appreciated!! This will be my first attempt in setting up. I have repaired units in networks but never set them up. THANKS.