Basic Home Network and Setting Up XP For File/Printer Sharing?

I am trying to set up a simple Wired Home Network, to share Broadband, files and printer between my PC and laptop. I am using a 4 port ADSL Modem/Router and running XP.





The Internet connection is working on both computers. However, I can’t seem to set up XP on one computer to recognise the other and allow file sharing etc. I have run the 'Network Set up Wizard' without success.





When I open ‘Network Connections’, it shows LAN and High Speed Internet. I tried selecting ‘Change Settings Of This Connection’. Then in properties under ‘This Connection Uses The Following Items’. Only Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) is installed.





I think I may need to install ‘Client For Microsoft Networks’ and ‘File And Printer Sharing For Microsoft Networks’. The problem is I don’t know which component to select from the ones listed. Do I need Client, Service or Protocol? Or have I got all this completely wrong.





Any help and suggestions much appreciated.

Basic Home Network and Setting Up XP For File/Printer Sharing?
Your suspicions are correct


You need to install and enable both Client for Microsoft Networks and File and Printer Sharing for Microsoft Networks


Make sure that these are installed on all machines in the network


Make sure all the computers are in the same work group


After you have installed the services on a machine, shut it down


When you have completed installing the services on all of the machines, start them up one at a time.


You should see all the machines in the View Work Group Computers window when you are done.





They are both services
Reply:on your desktop (assuming this is where the printer is installed and connected), go to control panel then click on printers. Right click on your printer, then properties then check box saying it's a shared printer. Follow instructions after. then on your laptop, go to control panel, add printer and then follow instructions selecting network printer.
Reply:It doesnt matter, key-in a password and go ahead, however choose a password that you will always remember. It is all part of the home network protocol..
Reply:You need to activate file and printer sharing and then right click the folders or printers you wish to share and share them