Is there an alternative to network browsing in Workgroup based (Not Domains !) networks ?

[Wolfgang Hercker]

As you know when I connect a couple of WinXP (Pro/Home) computers on Workgroup base (that means there
is no Win Server with a Domain controller) then the computer directory is normally established
by electing a "master browser" computer which keeps all the computer node data.

Ok. Now are there any alternatives to "network browsing" (without migration or installing a
Win2003 server) ?

Can I e.g install a little piece of server software which runs as DDNS (Dynamic DNS) in this little
Workgroup network?

Or is really Win2003 server installation the next big available step ?

I want to avoid instabilities in the current server-less network and speed up recognition time
of shutdown or new computers in the net - nothing more.

Wolfgang

 

[Jack \(MVP-Networking\).]

Hi
Map the Networked drives and you would have less trouble.
Jack (MVP-Networking).

 

[Guest]

Create an LHMHOSTS fiile containing a line for each computer, and place this
in the c:\windows\system32\drivers\etc folder.

Example entry:

192.168.12.23 MYHPBOX #PRE

This should overcome any resolution problems.. and *NO* DNS server or AD
controller to tear your hair out over!

Obviously, gets less practical as the computer-count increases but ideal for
a small number.

 

[Guest]

To make this work in a DHCP environment, use DHCP reservations. This means
you can use static entries in LMHOSTS but still only make changes to settings
just once (on the DHCP server). This would also allow you to use any old DNS
server without having to mess around with DDNS.

You