How do I transfer files from one laptop to another with crossover cable?

[foycur]

I have an old laptop using XP SP2 on its last legs. The CD ROM writer doesn't work, so I can't burn my old files onto a disc. My new laptop is Vista, and I just picked up an Ethernet crossover cable to connect the two and 'stream' my files to the other computer.

Is this as simple as plugging in the cable and going to town, or does it require a network setup first?

 

[CCT]

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/setup/getstarted/bott_fstw.mspx

 

[foycur]

what a dumba** I am. Here I am looking for answers when I should have just gone to Microsoft in the first place. Thanks!!