networking 101: laptop to pc

Archived from groups: comp.sys.laptops (More info?)

Hi'

I finally kind of connected my laptop to my desktop (directly w/ a
crossover cable and lan ports) , but once this is done, I just get to
shared folders, printers and some other folder I don't quite remember.

How can I get access to my desktop's drive c from my laptop (and
viceversa)?

I am missing something? Do I need special software for this?

any referrals to site w/ networking fundamentals are appreciated.

thanks for the help
al