Has anybody been able to make an IP4 over ethernet connection yet between 2 PC's?

My setup:
Desktop connected to Laptop via FireWire 1394.
Desktop runs Knoppix 5.0.1 and all xxx1394 mod's are loaded.
The laptop runs XP and FireWire is working with the desktop when in XP also.
I am up to the point that with gscanbus the two nodes are seen.
ethernet connections are configured for having an IP address.
Sometimes the two machines see each other with ping.

The aim is:
- to use filesharing between the laptop and desktop
- to use the desktop's printer from the laptop
- to enable the laptop th connect to internet through the desktop (Internet Connection Sharing)