networking 2 computers

i have this old laptop i want to link to my desktop computer. they both have network cards but my desktop uses its card to connect to the cable modem. is it possible to connect the modem using usb leaving the network card to connect to the laptop or do i need a second card. just learning and would appreciate any help. also do i just use a crossover cable to link the two together. thanking u bob2

bob2, welcome to Virtual Dr! :)

The host computer will need two network cards and have ICS enabled. This way the host can act as the ICS server. I'd recommend getting a NAT router. It would be safer to purchase a router. You wouldn't need a second network card nor you need to enable ICS because the router will provide the network connection.