Can't renew IP Address on my Windows XP

Hi,

So I have a Windows XP that hasn't had internet on it for a couple years now because I can't get it to connect. I tried to connect my laptops internet to my desktop via ethernet cord by bridging it but it won't work. I think maybe cause my IP address is out of date. So I tried to update my IP address on my desktop but I now have a problem with that too. The steps I'm doing is hitting the windows key+R and typing in cmd. Then I type in ipconfig /release. But it won't show me any IP Addresses. I've been trying for a while now but I just don't know what else to do. I really want to have internet on my desktop but I don't want to pay for anything. If someone can just help me please I would greatly appreciate it! I'm not too good with technology either so if you can help me with step by step instructions that would really help. Thanks!