Im Using ICS as my main pc is always on anyway and just linked it to a hub(run multiple pcs).Remember if your just connecting direct pc--laptop then you need crossover cable.Ive your buying a switch dont buy a router
Once linked just run network creation wizard and select
"This computer connects directly to the internet.Other computers on my network connect to the internet though this computer" on main pc
On laptop select "This computer connects to the internet through a residential gateway or through another computer on my network" This is if your just using crossover cable.
If you buy a router an connect both to this using straight cable just reboot modem and router this should give connection to both