Trouble Connecting XP Computers

  • Thread starter Thread starter Neil Ginsberg
  • Start date Start date
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Neil Ginsberg

I have two Win XP Home computers -- one desktop, one laptop. They are
connected with a cable without a hub or router. When connected, the desktop
is able to log into the laptop, but the laptop's not able to log into the
desktop. The desktop has a user name and password. The laptop has the same
user name, but no password. I added the same password to the laptop user
account, but the situation is unchanged.

When I try to log into the desktop from the laptop, I get a prompt with user
name and password. The user name is Guest, and the dropdown is grayed out,
so I cannot change it from Guest. I tried entering the password for my
regular user account, but it didn't work, as did no password.

Thus, it forces me to try and log into my desktop as Guest, and I cannot
change that.

In LAN Properties | Authentication, I have "Authenticate as computer when
computer information is available" checked. (I tried unchecking it; same
results.) "Authenticate as guest when user or computer information is
unavailable" is unchecked.

In the General tab, I have:
- Client for Microsoft Networks
- File and Printer Sharing for Microsoft Networks
- QoS Packet Scheduler
- Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)

Thanks for any assistance!

Neil
 
I was always under the impression that routers were _more_ finicky that
connecting two computers together directly.
 
Neil
You might try your question in the Networking and the Web newsgroup. Couldn't hurt
danny
 
You must use a "crossover" cable. You can get them at Radio Shack, Best Buy
or anywhere that sells networking gear.

Ed
 
Since I can connect the two computers at least one way, that would indicate
that I'm using a crossover cable, no? Otherwise, it wouldn't work at all.

FWIW, I was told that Windows XP makes the crossover cable unnecessary and
that a regular patch cable can be used. That's just what I heard anyway.

Neil
 
Neil Ginsberg said:
Since I can connect the two computers at least one way, that would indicate
that I'm using a crossover cable, no? Otherwise, it wouldn't work at all.

FWIW, I was told that Windows XP makes the crossover cable unnecessary and
that a regular patch cable can be used. That's just what I heard anyway.

Neil
Click to expand...

No, if you connect them directly without a hub or router you need a special
"crossover" cable to communicate both ways. This is probably the reason you
are having problems.

Ed
 
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