I want to link my laptop to my desktop to share files. is this possible to link them as a network with only a cat5 Ethernet cable? if so can i still do this if the laptop is running windows XP and the desktop Vista?
You need either: 1) two ethernet cables and a hub (switch will work too) or 2) a crossover ethernet cable The two OS's will work fine together. You'll need to setup NetBEUI in the Network Protocol list (could do TCP, but no need if you are only connecting these two together and nothing else). NetBEUI is no configuration; it just works. Do neither of these machines have an internet connection? If so and you want them both to access the 'net, that changes things.
Yes it is possible. You just make your cable as a cross over cable and connect two computers. Don't forget to give share with full control permission. I think you know how to give IP in both XP and Vista.
To plug two ports directly into each other you need a crossover cable, which you probably don't have. They're available at electronics stores. Otherwise you can get a hub for very cheap ( 20 online).
