Home Networking Problem

[Guest]

I have a Dell Dimension desktop computer running Win XP home linked up to
wireless broadband by way of a router (a Linksys WRT54G). Also coupled to
the desktop is a HP 890C printer. We have bought a laptop running Vista basic
and with wireless capability which does connect through the router now to the
internet. What I also want to do is to allow the laptop to connect to the
desktop so as to be able to share and use the printer plus files etc. I have
tried running the Network Set up wizard but without success. Can anyone give
a step by step rundown in plain English as to how to get such a setup to
operate:-what do you need to do.This would be much appreciated. Thank You,
Paul.

 

[Guest]

Hi Paul,

Are either (or both) of these computers using a third-party firewall? When
you say you ran the Network Setup Wizard "without success", what exactly is
not working? There are a number of steps involved -- if using the Network
Setup Wizard doesn't work, you'd be best off getting someone tech-savvy (i.e.
a computer tech) to come over and do this for you. (or at least have someone
connect remotely via Remote Assistance)

Best Wishes,
Kurosh

 

[Guest]

Thank you very much for the reply. Both computers are using only the windows
firewall but when I run the network wizard, at the final step I get the
message that the job could not be completed due to configuration settings so
I guess therein somewhere lies a problem.

As you correctly suggest, probably the best way would be to get a computer
tech in to iron it out. I have a booklet on networking which implied it was
an easy thing to do but there is obviously more to it. Frustrating though as
I don't like being beaten by such problems!! My thanks again.

Kind Regards

Paul.

 

[Guest]

Hi Paul,

If you gave us the exact error message you are getting, we might be able to
point you in the right direction. However, in reality, networking is not as
simple as your book might suggest (and you've found out). There are so many
factors which could be preventing a proper network setup -- one of the
reasons that getting the MCSE certification is not an easy thing to do.
Computers has been an avid hobby of mine for over 23 years now, and it still
took me 5 months of intensive studies (8 years ago) to understand how to
network computers properly. Definitely the best way to go would be to get
someone who is knowledgable about network setups to come in and iron things
out.

If you're still keen on trying to figure it out, it would also be a good
idea to re-post your question in the proper newsgroup (i.e. "Windows XP
Networking and the Web" or "Wireless Networking"). Every group has its
experts.

Best Wishes,
Kurosh