Home Networking 1

[exodus300]

I've read some articles about networking XP and 9x computers in a workgroup situation. I've read about how a 9x machine must log on using a username and password from an XP machine in order to access that computer's network shares. But what's the deal with going the other way (ie an XP machine accessing a 9x machine)?

I'm interested in information about networking and file security using XP (I hope to upgrade one day, I'd like to have some knowledge when I do). Anything you can tell me, or any resources you can direct me to, is much appreciated. [Thanks in advance|Hope I helped you]
Exodus300

 

[dakota81]

XP can access a 98 share no questions asked.

 

[smah]

exodus300, the info you posted is true, but not exactly the whole truth. XP Pro has 2 methods of file sharing - Simple File Sharing and full, 2K-like file sharing. Assuming that we're talking about a workgroup type network (not domain controller), here are a couple of very good, step by step links for the 2 methods:

http://www.practicallynetworked.com/sharing/xp/filesharing.htm

http://www.practicallynetworked.com/sharing/xp_filesharing/index.htm

The most common problems I've seen are:
1. When using Simple File Sharing, people try to share folders that are not allowed. Not everything can be shared by this method.
2. When not using SFS, not changing the appropriate security setting to allow 9x machines access without a password. This info is noted in the 2nd link above.

As mentioned by dakota81, XP will access a 98 share like any other windows os. For MS's somewhat obtuse explanation of simple file sharing, see this KB article:

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;304040.

As you may have noticed, when I started this thread, I mentioned XP Pro. XP home can also use full file sharing, by it has to be booted into safe mode and log on as Administrator to change or set full file sharing permissions.

Now, if we're talking about a domain environment instead of a workgroup. XP Pro will behave the same as a 9x machine. XP Home can not technically connect to a domain, but there is a registry edit floating around this forum somewhere that will supposedly allow this. I can't verify it's validity, I haven't tried it. Hope this helps.