Dylan, what have you got wireless on? Built into your laptop?
Best solution is a four in one ADSL Modem, Wireless+wired router, firewall. I have this 3com one...
http://www.dabs.com/uk/productview?quicklinx=311Vbut they start cheaper...
http://www.dabs.com/uk/productview?quicklinx=2LPZThe main advantages are that a router stands alone from the desktop pc, so no computer has be to turned on for the network/internet to work..also is your current modem a USB one? Cos if it is you'll probably have problems if you try to use internet connection sharing with this...most things are ok but things like messenger get confused as you'll be sharing one IP address.
I have been using my 3com one with a desktop hardwired in, and two wireless laptops (oooo, look at me!!! :D ) surfing from around the house for a while now, pretty reliable and very handy when me Julie is surfing...like she does...all the time :roll:
(Cofe was impressed with the evil witchcraft of it all... :twisted: )