Networking Problems

[SlykFX]

Im having a slight prob with networking my two computers

my main computer is running WinXP Pro and runs the proxy for my laptop
my laptop is running WinXP Home

my laptop can view the workgroup and sees both computers in there - the laptop can access itself but not the computer

my computer cannot viwe the workgroup - if i type in the copmuter names in the address bar it can access both the laptop and iteself

ive checked everything i can think of but still no luck

can anyone else think of anything i may have over looked or suggest a fix for it

thanks in advance

I can't be bothered to have a sig!

 

[noellees1]

Disable the windows XP firewall on the LAN connection get a better one it interfeered with my pcs the same way

 

[bcastner]

Under Network Connections, TCP/IP Properties, Advanced, WINS tab, enable Netbios over TCP/IP.

. No blank or empty passwords on either machine;
. Identical Workgroup name, unique computer name;
. Be absolutely sure there are no firewall issues, including "hidden" firewall components in antivirus software. PC-Illan is famous for doing this.
. Something: Drive, Folder, printer, but something shared on all machines.
. User names and passwords on Computer A made as new users on Computer B, and vice-versa.

 

[SlykFX]

ive just double checked a few settings

and now

neither computer can view workgroup
laptop cannot connect to main computer view name but will using ip address
main computer can connect to laptop using name

id like to know why this is but isnt too big a problem now that i can access bioth computers from the other

-noelees - the only firewall running is on the main computer and that has been set to fully allow the laptops ip address

-bcastner - thanks for the suggestions but ive already checked all those

I can't be bothered to have a sig!

 

[ceh4702]

Be easier to purchase a small router.

If you do not like my post feel free to point out your opinion or my errors.

 

[zestril5]

BCastner
Not just for this network problem but for many others I have seen you post the following
. No blank or empty passwords on either machine;
. Identical Workgroup name, unique computer name;
. Be absolutely sure there are no firewall issues,
. Something: Drive, Folder, printer, but something shared on all machines.
. User names and passwords on Computer A made as new users on Computer B, and vice-versa.

I understand 2 3 and 4 and I also agee and usually install Netbui but the first item (no blank passwords) and the last (all users on all computer) I don't understand.
I have many network setups at many customers that don't use passwords and don't have the same user name on each computer. Simple file sharing is disabled and permission for file sharing is done through sharing and security.
What is the reasoning behind the password and user instructions.
By the way I have seen others post these same "rules" but I just saw this again and it happened to be you that posted it. There must be a good reason if you suggest it but i'd like to know why. Thanks