Allen bradley network programming

Dear Sir,

I'm new to Allen bradley PLC programming. I've doubt in hardware connections. Can we use Ethernet port for ladder uploading and downloading instead of using the RS-232 port? I don't have switch or hub to connect the Micrologix 1100 module to the LAPTOP. Which connection I can use for communicating my laptop to Micrologix 1100 directly? direct or cross link connection??.. Please help me in this regard.

Thank you

cross link connection.without hub

Thank you very much sir...I'll try...