connecting pc laptop to internet?

So I have a mac desktop computer, hooks up to the internet via the modem from my cable company, no problems, but when i plug the cable into my laptop (pc, windows) it won't connect to the internet. It has connected to wireless internet just fine before, but i don't have wireless at the new place and it won't detect an internet connection or anything when i plug in the cable. I've tried everything i can think of (network settings, etc.) any tips?