don't need a router...
get a cross-over network cable, plug it in to both laptops.
Then manually set the IP address of both laptops, you don't need to fill in DNS servers or default gateway.
laptop 1
ip: 192.168.1.50
subnet-mask:255.255.255.0
laptop 2
ip:192.168.1.51
subnet-mask:255.255.255.0
http://www.overclock.net/faqs/93129-...ress-step.html
http://www.ncix.com/products/?sku=54...BLES%20TO%20GO