Really basic networking questions...

Please excuse me here, I am fairly computer savy but totally ignorant about networks.

I am about to puchase my first laptop, most likely a lenovo X60, for grad school. I will use the machine for note taking in class and also at home for writing papers and assignments. Initially I was going to puchase a docking base with optical drive and set up a home station with external monitor.

However, since I also own a powerful Dell desktop with tons of bells and whistles, I am now wondering if I can't just create a simple network that will allow me to share files between the two machines. This way I can take notes in class on the laptop and then work on longer papers and projects from the desktop.

How do I go about networking the desktop and the laptop? Both will be running XP Pro. Is it as simple as connecting them via CAT -5, or do I need to configure some things in the OS? Once set up, will I be able to easily plug the laptop in and out of the network, or will I need to go through a bunch of steps each time?

Once the network is set up, will I be able access the optical Drive in the desktop from the laptop? Specifically, can I install software onto the laptop using the DVD drive in the desktop? Also, will I be able to burn to disk from the laptop using the desktop's drive? If this can be done, I believe I can spare the expense of puchasing an optical drive for the laptop.

Same question, only concerning the Hard Drive on the desktop. Can I back up the laptop to the hard drive on the desktop? Note: I already have an external hard drive that backs up the desktop.

Finally, if I need to work at home on a paper, can I access files from the laptop, revise them on the full screen monitor, and then save them back to the laptop so I can take them to school the next day?

I believe if I can do all of those things I can save some money and get a few more years of life out of the desktop. Is there anything else I need to know to make this configuration work for me?

 

You can connect both pc together with a crossover network cable. But I would recommend buying a router if you want to share your ISP line. Your laptop will probably have wireless, so you may want to consider a wireless router.

Once the network is up you must turn on File and Printer Sharing. Either on 1 or both pc's. You can share any folder and/or Drives. Backup yes, MS has a good utility called Synctoy, FREE, works great for your needs.

Most laptops have a svga connection for hooking up a external monitor. Or you could setup remote access, if need. I personally do not like holes in my firewall.