After wanting a laptop for a couple of years i've finally bought 1

I'm connected to NTL Broadband via a cable modem which plugs into a USB port on the desktop PC, the laptop has 3 USB connections and is wireless.
I want to connect the laptop so i can use either of the computers to get onto the net but don't want to have to have the desktop switched on to use the laptop.
I understand i need a router - does this connect to the NTL modem and split the connection? do i run a lead from the router to the desktop? what do i need for the laptop to pick up the signal (it's wireless so does this mean it picks it up automatically?)

Is there any specific makes of router to go for

Cheers

 

We have a 3com router with built in modem and run the pc and laptop off it via a firewire card.

www.3com.com

 

How does the firewire thing work? my laptop has this but i don't know what it's for ( i know - bought something which i don't understand)

 

Its like an expansion port/adaptor port. My laptop doesnt have usb2 sockets so i have a firewire card that has.

This is what i have for the wireless signal:

http://www.3com.com/images/products/...crwe154g72.gif