More tech support?

This time I really need advice. I have the new laptop. It has a wireless card, etc. I have cable access to the internet via my ISP (Earthlink). I have an older desktop that I use with this cable access. The Earthlink tech support says that I can hook up the router (Netgear) and the cable modem (v.old Surfboard), and that will allow me to get wireless access on the laptop and cable access on the desktop. But that was all they were willing to say.

I hate having to deal with several different companies--none is willing to tell me everything I need to know. Does anyone foresee any problems with what I describe above? The Netgear info shows me how to hook it all up, but doesn't talk about what happens if only one of the computers has wireless capability.

Answers will not be in vain! And will be greatly, greatly appreciated.

(no subject)

Happiest of birthdays to gleefulfreak! I hope you get as much joy as you give, and that all the pieces fall perfectly into place.

And thanks for the advice, too--I forgot to say.