Networking Alternatives with Vista

[tux-curious]

So I've recently switched from Ubuntu to Vista, using a new laptop for University and I have a question about different networking methods.

The school has free wi-fi, but it's very public and I don't want to set my settings on that network to allow anybody in. On the other hand, I have a few friends with laptops that I wanna share with extremely openly.

So I tried setting up an ad hoc network, but that cut me off from the wi-fi.

Is there anyway you can create a simple wired network (two computers connected with USB, ethernet cable, or firewire with no other hardware) on Vista?

[Nebby]

Most computers have ethernet ports, so you could connect two (if you want more than that connected you'll need a hub or switch) using an ethernet cable.

Ps. If you have to buy the cable, make sure you get crossover if you're not using a hub.