Trying to network new laptop and old desktop

[Guest]

I have a new laptop with Windows XP Home pre-loaded on it (i.e. I don't have the XP CD) and I have a desktop pc with Windows 98. I am trying to network them via Ethernet cables and Hub. I have run the network set up wizard on both computers but they can't see each other. The laptop wizard is telling me to create a XP network disk on a floppy to use on the old computer, but of course my laptop doesn't have a floppy drive. It then suggests I use the XP Cd, which it didn't come with. The lovely tech support people from the laptop manufacturer just tell me their duties don't extend to help with networking. I am so frustrated.

Lael

 

[Luke]

Hi Lael,
It should be possible to setup your network without the network wizard.

1. Open the properties for your LAN connection
2. Remove all of the protocols, services and components in the box on
the properties page (you will not be able to remove TCP/IP).
3. Then install the following:
-Client for Microsoft Networks
-File & Printer sharing....
-NWLink NetBIOS
-NWLink IPX\SPX...
4. Restart the computer (try this on both machines)
Let me know how you get on, Luke.