How can I connect my iPad to the internet if I only have an ethernet cable?

I have tried making my laptop into a wifi hotspot using connectify however even though the wireless sign shows up on my ipod, safari fails to retrieve any web page. (Ive allowed the program through windows firewall, i still have webroot internet security complete and im not sure if the internet sharing option is even there to untick or tick)

I was thinking of a device called a wireless ethernet bridge, would this work? and can i set up my own password just to access that access point.

This might seem like to much information and i can understand why you may be confused reading this, but any help is much appreciated.

Thanks

What is a VPN?

VPN is (Virtual Private Network) were first used by companies to enable their employees to securely access internal systems such as email remotely (e.g. from home or while on business trips). Today they are increasingly being used for personal use by individuals to protect their privacy while online in public places (e.g. when using the wi-fi connection in a cafe) or in a country where the internet is censored / blocked (e.g. China, Saudi Arabia��).