ml> what's wrong with a simple network switch? 8-port 10/100 switches
 ml> are cheap, these days... less then $20US... no, not a router... a
 ml> switch... 

 TL> A wired connection....means running cat5 cable from the basement
 TL> front to the second floor rear?  Don't think so.

further thoughts on this...

ummm... i can't say how many places that i have done exactly this by
running the cable outside and around in the same manner that satellite and
cable connections are run ;)

i stayed with a friend in PA for several weeks and we easily ran a CAT5
cable from their connection on their 2nd floor to my living space in their
basement (the opposite from what you write) with no problems or
"ugliness" ;)

)\/(ark