Computer Desktop PCs

I have one desktop PC with Windows XP Media Center 2005 installed on it and one HP laptop with Windows Vista Home Premium installed on it.

I need to network both machines together with crossover cable. Network card is ready on the desktop, crossover cable is ready.
What software configuration shall i make or what are the steps I should take since I always heard about issues and problems in networking XP with Vista.

Thank you for your help.

Philip