If you have Internet connection, it is not simpler than using a Wireless Cable/DSL Router, and it is only few $$ cheaper.
This saved few $$$ might buy you a lot of aggravation.
At this time of the year you can find Wireless Cable/DSL Routers for less than $30 (if you do not need a Router you can use it as a Switch with an Access Point).
An Inexpensive PCMCIA card for the Laptop can be found for $10-$15.
For less than $50 you can do it the right way.
If you do not have Internet connection you still better off with the above, it would give you more options to establish stable connection.