/R/ Halp

Alright, I have sort of a problem.

My friend is over, and we're trying to setup a network.  Here is what we've got.

His computer connected through a Motorola Surfboard, connectivity is already setup to his PC.  We have his computer, and my computer.  No router.

We have 2 ethernet cables "one which is already connected from the surfboard to his PC", and 1 Surfboard USB connector.

Can we make a network happen?  If so, how?

We tried doing "setup wizard" Says, cannot renew IP address that way.. Is there another option?

unless the modem says it will allow you to connect 2 computers, you will need a router to share your connection

You can make a network happen. You'd have to connect the modem to his computer via USB (this may require driver installs, etc.) After his computer is fine and working, connect your computer to his via the now-free ethernet port the modem used to be plugged into. Set up internet sharing (it's a bit shitty, you can try the wizard or just read up a tutorial on Google or Windows Help) and his computer should be set up to share internet to your computer.