Vista default network connection

I am totally new to Windows Vista, but got stuck with it on a new laptop. While trying to set up a wireless home network on my XP destop and the laptop I tried to use the "connect to" button on the start menu. I found my network connection and another called default. I noticed it was disconnected.
Does this pose a security breach? And if so, what would be the best way of curing the problem? OleGeyGhost

 

Thanks for the reply.

Yes, they are both network names.
I apologize for my slow response, long weekend. It just seems strange that I can see another network, nearest neighbor is 300 feet. I thought maybe it was something from the wireless printer, but it still shows when the printer is turned off.
Then from what you are saying, I can infer anyone within range with an unsecured or secured network will show up in the "connect to" window.
OleGreyGhost

 

I have a slightly better understanding now. The network names show up in Vista, (sorta like caller ID). But why don't they show up in XP??
All that shows in network connections is "local area connection - lan or high speed internet "; not even my own network name. What's up with that? OleGreyGhost

 

TONYT

. No, it is not.
Sorry, I should have described the setup better. XP computer is attached to a wireless gateway router which is connected to the dsl modem. Then this would explain why my wireless printer was placed in the printer folder of the XP computer. Correct?
After more searching this afternoon, I found my network name in "my network places ". (Access denied - permissions). Even with admin privileges. Will have to research this one, unless another kind person wants to drop a hint.
I did not setup the laptop to access the XP computer yet because of my concern for the "default" network connection. I did find wildfires' link to networking home computers with different OS versions. This will be a great help. Thanks for the assistance. It makes it easier when I understand the workings of the system. OleGreyGhost