Connecting Laptop to PC via Wireless network

[Andy]

Apologies if this has been a previous thread.

I have recently purchased a Laptop PC running Vista premium, along with a
Netgear wireless ADSL modem router (DG834G v3). I have an existing desktop PC
running XP. I have succeded in connecting both PC's wirelessly to the
modem/router and can access the internet with either no problem. The laptop
(Vista) shows the desktop as part of the network 'map', connecting to the
router in the same way as the laptop does, but I am unable to share files
between the two PC's. The desktop (XP) gives no indication of the Laptop on
the network. Additionally, although of little significance I'm sure, both
units have been configured and have connected to my new WiFi printer and work
fine.

Any help will be good.

 

[Detlev Dreyer]

I have recently purchased a Laptop PC running Vista premium, along with a
Netgear wireless ADSL modem router (DG834G v3). I have an existing desktop PC
running XP. I have succeded in connecting both PC's wirelessly to the
modem/router and can access the internet with either no problem. The laptop
(Vista) shows the desktop as part of the network 'map', connecting to the
router in the same way as the laptop does, but I am unable to share files
between the two PC's.

See your router's configuration menu. Most of them have the option "Allow
connected computers to share files" (or similar) and this option is dis-
abled by default. Enable that option and your problem should be fixed.

 

[Kenny]

Similar problem fixed by manually entering an IP range and subnet mask into
the trusted zone in firewall on both PC's.
Some firewalls do this automatically but the free versions of Zone Alarm and
Comodo have to be set up manually.

 

[Detlev Dreyer]

Similar problem fixed by manually entering an IP range and subnet mask
into the trusted zone in firewall on both PC's.

Well, that's not necessary when sticking with the built-in firewall.

Some firewalls do this automatically but the free versions of Zone Alarm
and Comodo have to be set up manually.

Correct. It's amazing how many people believe in the security of third-
party firewalls although not being capable to configure them correctly.
However, "both units have been configured" and the "new WiFi printer" can
be accessed according to the OP - therefore, that common mistake is not
very likely in this case.