Reading the other posts regarding changing from TCP/IP. It is easier to troublehoot with TCP/IP and you were on the right track on establishing that ping didn't work 1st.
I assume you are using 10BaseT cables and hub?

1. Check the hub port light, it should be on for both connections.
2. If light not on check cable. (should be straight through for PC to hub)
If 10/100 hub you can get problems with older LAN cards not getting the speed right and can be worth turning off auto negotiation.
2. Ensure one of computers is not connected into an uplink port (seen it too many times)
3. As in previous posts ping local loopback address. (A reply shows IP running)
4. Double check IP addresses, both use same subnet mask, both on same network.
5. If you do suspect the hub / cabling try using a x-over cable directly between laptop and server.

Wiring: 1-3, 2-6, 3-1, 6-2

Sorry if any of this is basic stuff for you but most problems of this type can be found with the steps above.