Need help with networking with XP

[Albert]

I have two new computers, a laptop and a desktop; both
running XP Home and using a crossover cable (no hub or
router) to connect them. The desktop recognizes itself
but not the laptop. The laptop does not recognize
anything. Is it even possible to connect two computers
running XP with a crossover cable? Any input would be
appreciated.

 

[Bob Willard]

I have two new computers, a laptop and a desktop; both
running XP Home and using a crossover cable (no hub or
router) to connect them. The desktop recognizes itself
but not the laptop. The laptop does not recognize
anything. Is it even possible to connect two computers
running XP with a crossover cable? Any input would be
appreciated.

A crossover cable is the simplest of all LANs, and XP supports it.
Disable ICF. Check that both PCs have the same workgroup name
and different PC names. Check that both PCs are in the same
IPA subnet (for IPA=a.b.c.d, the a.b.c should be the same and
the d's different, and the mask=255.255.255.0 for both).
Check that TCP/IP is the only protocol (at least initially), and
that NetBIOS over TCP/IP is enabled. Check that Client for M$nets
and F&P sharing are enabled.