Vista - need help with ad hoc network

I do apologize as in my searches I've seen numerous posts about this, but I couldn't find any solutions that either helped me out, or that I understood.

With that being said I have a new desktop running vista home premium sp1 and a laptop running the same. I've been trying to succesfully set up an ad hoc connection to transfer files between the two with no progress.

At one point I had the laptop discovering the desktop, but the ideal situation would have been the reverse. The desktop recognized the laptop but when i tried to access it i got an error message saying that the dns server didn't recognize the name.

I've been up and down multiple message boards and forums and can't seem to figure thing out. if anyone out there can help me out, I'd be greatful.

I'm not as savy as most everyone on here so laymens terms and simplified procedures would be appreciated. Thanks in advance

I should also ad, because i feel like it might be a reason for my troubles, that on my laptop, when I connect to my wireless network it is seamingly connected twice.

It displays that I am connected to the network, in this case named "the bricks" directly below that in the netowrk and sharing center it displays that I am connected to an unidentified public network, but also refers to it by the proper name beside the connection field?

This may not have anything to do with anything, but it's bothersome and thought it might help