Non Ad-hoc WiFi for Android Devices?

Sorry if I sound like a complete novice (because I am one) but the problem basically presents itself.
I have a Dell Inspiron with Windows Vista (don't ask me why) which is connected to the internet via an ethernet port (because I live in a college dorm).
So I tried to convert this into a wifi for my Samsung phone and tablet androids by making it into an adhoc connection, but they didnt register it. After much Google-ing I realised that androids don't support ad-hoc connections.
I even tried installing Connectify. But once again it created an ad-hoc connection as my laptop is Vista, which is incompatible.

I also read all this stuff about rooting your phone etc. which basically scared the hell out of me because I don't want to damage my devices and I'm afraid I might just, if I mess it up. They work absolutely fine otherwise.

So basically my question is, is there ANY way (an app, a software; no configuration required please) in which I can connect an android device to an Ethernet internet connection via Vista?

Thanks in advance. Especially to those who can explain in easy language.

Complete NOVICE

 

Your school may be using strict MAC address allocation (one student...one machine).

Speak to the school's IT about this.

 

Naah, i don't think so. My friends who have Macs, iPads and iPhones or Windows XP use the internet on multiple devices. I'm pretty sure that's not the issue.