How can I configure a network connection between a laptop and a desktop using a crossover cable?

plug the cable in the pc's and Start/Control Panel/Network Setup Wizard.

Assuming you have XP

You already know you need a crossover cable - good

Here are the directions from the XP help file

To make a direct network connection

Open Network Connections.

Under Network Tasks, click Create a new connection, and then click Next.

Click Set up an advanced connection, and then click Next.

Click Connect directly to another computer, click Next, and then follow the instructions in the New Connection Wizard.

Notes

To open Network Connections, click Start, point to Settings, click Control Panel, and then double-click Network Connections.

To create a direct network connection that acts as a host, you must be logged on as a computer administrator. Guest direct network connections do not require administrator-level rights.

If you specify your connection as a host when you create it, the connection appears as Incoming Connections in the Network Connections folder.

You can create multiple direct connections by copying them in the Network Connections folder. You can then rename the connections and modify connection settings. By doing so, you can easily create different connections to accommodate multiple ports, host computers, and so on.

Direct connections can bypass authentication requirements. This is useful for devices such as palmtop computers. You must configure this setting in the host incoming connection. For more information, click Related Topics.

If you create a direct connection by using a serial (RS-232C) cable, the port that you select in the New Connection Wizard is enabled for connections that use a null modem.

If you are logged on to your computer as a computer administrator when you create a direct connection, you are presented with a list of connection devices to choose from that includes all of the parallel ports for the computer, infrared ports that are installed and enabled, and COM ports. If you are not logged on as a computer administrator, and create a direct connection, the list of devices includes the parallel ports for the computer, infrared ports that are installed and enabled, and only the COM ports that are configured with null modems. If you need to use a COM port for a direct connection, you will need to configure one of the COM ports on your computer with a null modem by using Phone and Modem Options in Control Panel.

Users do not need to use direct connections to allow access to shared resources, such as files and printers, over a local area network. In order to enable shared access to resources on the local computer, you must enable file and print sharing, share the resources, and then set up the appropriate permissions.

Good luck

In XP right click on My Computer, go to properties, Computer Name and then Network ID. It will start wizard.