step by step for wireless Netgear Intranet linking XP desktop toWin 7 laptops?

I recently acquired a Netgear G54/N150 wireless router with the
intention of setting up a wireless network among my home desktop and
laptops. The router is connected to the XP SP3 desktop and I had hoped
to be able to share files via the Win 7 laptops, but I am not having any
luck so far. I can see the wireless router (along with various
neighbors) on the laptop, but I either can't connect or when I do I end
up with limited connectivity and I haven't been able to access the XP
files at all. I have been trying to track down some step by step
tutorials on the web, but the ones I've read so far either have too
little information or are missing relevant info in the better tutorials.
Can someone suggest a detailed, beginners tutorial for my subject
mentioned task that is easy to understand, doesn't miss or assume steps
taken, and also includes the proper security measures to be taken?
Thanks in advance.

 

See if this long URL helps get you going.
http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/15247/complete-guide-to-networking-windows-7-with-xp-and-vista/