I'm about to purchase a Vista laptop with wireless capabilities. Is it possible to 'network' this laptop with a Desktop running XP, so that both can work internet simultaneously?

CFJ

Your broadband account + your modem + a wireless router

Hook the Vista laptop wirelessly and hook the XP computer however you can, either wireless or with an RJ-45 cable to the same router. But usually at least 1 pc should be wired directly to the router to set it up at least.