What else - Win XP Network query

[user]

Trying to connect Desktop computer and a Laptop both running Win XP Home
using a verified cross over cable. I was under the impression that if I
gave a folder shared capabilities, then you should at least be able to
see it under Network Places on the computer it resides on. That's how it
works on my old computer that is no longer networked to anything. i.e.
in Windows Explorer make a folder called TEST shareable (via properties
screens) and then expand out Network Places, expand the Workgoup name
and expand the computer name and there you will see TEST with whatever
files it contains listed on the right hand pane of the screen.
But this doesn't work on my new desktop/laptop combo. I get to the
Workgroup name under Network Places and it opens to nothing.
Any thoughts from the cognoscenti ?

 

[phoenix]

Trying to connect Desktop computer and a Laptop both running Win XP Home
using a verified cross over cable. I was under the impression that if I
gave a folder shared capabilities, then you should at least be able to
see it under Network Places on the computer it resides on. That's how it
works on my old computer that is no longer networked to anything. i.e.
in Windows Explorer make a folder called TEST shareable (via properties
screens) and then expand out Network Places, expand the Workgoup name
and expand the computer name and there you will see TEST with whatever
files it contains listed on the right hand pane of the screen.
But this doesn't work on my new desktop/laptop combo. I get to the
Workgroup name under Network Places and it opens to nothing.
Any thoughts from the cognoscenti ?

Have you created an account on each PC for the other PC? For instance PC1
has an account called PC2 + password and PC2 has an account called PC1 +
password. Is file and printer sharing installed and 'checked'? Is there any
firewall installed on either PC?

Regards

Bill

 

[user]

Hi Phoenix,
This is first mention I have heard about setting up accounts. Is this in
addition to the Network Install wizard procedure? File and printer
sharing seems to be installed OK and there isn't a firewall active.

Shouldn't I be also be able to see a shared folder that is in say, My
Documents, down in the Network Places (expanded out) on the same
computer. Bad writing here I know. After setting a folder for sharing on
my non networked PC(not related to the two I am working on here), if I
then look further down in Network Places, expand it out, I will see my
Workgroup name, then the PC name, then the shared folder.

But on the two PC's I am trying to join together, this doesn't work, I
get as far as the Workgroup name and then nothing expands further.

So have I a Sharing problem and if so any ideas on what it is?
The annoying thing here is three weeks ago I was able to see files in
both directions but not since.

Arrgh!
Thanks, Chris