I'm a novice when it comes to computers so can somebody help please. I have a desktop machine with a broadband connection and want to occasionally connect my laptop to the same connection instead (or as well as if possible). Both have Windows XP with service packs installed. I thought it would be a simple case of take the connection out of the modem and put it into the usb on the laptop but clearly not.
Please help in simple terms.
Thanks

It is a simple case, but you will need some further hardware.
What you need is a broadband router.
Now depending on what type of broadband you have makes a difference, either ADSL or Cable.

Have a look at neatgear's site for some ideas: Home Networking - NETGEAR.com (http://www.netgear.com/Solutions/HomeNetworking.aspx)