Connecting Laptop using XP to Desktop using Vista 64 Premium

Is it possible using the same type of cable that I'd use to hook a router
with a computer, (yellow cable) to directly connect my laptop to my desktop
without having an adverse effect on my wireless network which has 3 systems
total on it?

Been trying to no avail, as I'm fairly new at the concept of networking..lol

In reading some of the other postings, I've realized I should probably add
some more info:

Desktop is running Vista 64 Premium with the Norton 360 trial version running

Laptop is running XP Pro SP3 with the Norton Protection Center that comes
with my ISP, ATT/Yahoo.

I've checked the firewall settings on both, and have made sure that the
correct sharing aspects are allowed per other posts here.

The DSL modem that was provided for me came with 2 cables...1 Yellow and 1
Blue. I'm wondering if I'm using the wrong (yellow) cable for what I'm
attempting?

I set all 3 computers on my network up on a wireless configuration, but felt
that a direct connect between the laptop and my main desktop would allow for
much faster data transfer.

"lnfinity" wrote:

Is there a way of telling if the second cable (blue) they sent me, (only
ever used the yellow one) is a crossover cable? I'm assuming that a crossover
cable can connect directly to each computer's nic card?...told you I'm new at
most of this, thus a bit clueless...lol

"Paul Montgomery" wrote:

"Paul Montgomery" wrote:
Thanks Paul, I appreciate the help. Did a look at Ebay as I don't have the
proper tools to do it meself, and found that they're not all that
expensive.....only question is Red or Grey...but I don't think that should
make a difference.

I do appreciate your timely answers, you're a good sport!

John