Home network/workgroup?

[ssfanatic]

I dont really know all that much about computers and im trying to set up a home workgroup. My desktop is running off of XP and my laptop is running on VISTA. I cant figure our how they register one another. Is this even possible. HELP!

[AgentofGaming]

Use the network wizard!

Just make sure all the computers on the same network have the same workgroup name. (although it can work without it sometimes)

[ssfanatic]

Use the network wizard!

Just make sure all the computers on the same network have the same workgroup name. (although it can work without it sometimes)
Sorry but my XP doesnt even realize the Vista computer is on the network. Ive tried everything, im not so sure it can work. I talked to another person who is computer savvy and they said that they quite using Vista bec is wouldnt work with their XP computers.

[AgentofGaming]

Did you try network wizard on vista and use that option for floppy discs to setup the other computers?

Yeah.. vista can get pretty annoying.

[ssfanatic]

Ye, i tried that. But the Vista comp. is a laptop, so even if it would work it would be pointless to run the network through a laptop.

[AgentofGaming]

Well how about manually setting the IP addresses for each computer and going into your router to make sure the IP settings are acceptable?

or do you want to share files too? that you'll have to open firewalls.

[HackerX]

What are you trying to achieve as far as networking goes? Sharing files, sharing a net connection??

Easy way to set up a network is:
- Buy a router (If you're sharing the internet, a switch is fine if you're not). This will make life so much easier. Configure as needed (Most are pretty easy to set up these days)
- Set both computers up to automatically configure IP address via DHCP
- Set both computers up to use Simple File Sharing (probably what's causing you issues at the moment). This isn't on by default.
- Set any firewall settings to allow access from computers within your routers IP range.
- Share files, play network games and be merry.

[ssfanatic]

What are you trying to achieve as far as networking goes? Sharing files, sharing a net connection??

Easy way to set up a network is:
- Buy a router (If you're sharing the internet, a switch is fine if you're not). This will make life so much easier. Configure as needed (Most are pretty easy to set up these days)
- Set both computers up to automatically configure IP address via DHCP
- Set both computers up to use Simple File Sharing (probably what's causing you issues at the moment). This isn't on by default.
- Set any firewall settings to allow access from computers within your routers IP range.
- Share files, play network games and be merry.
-I have a wireless router.
-I dont know how to do that
-I have
-Ditto
-Wish i could :(

[AgentofGaming]

#2. To turn on DHCP
Based on my windows XP (you'll have to fiddle around to find the Vista equivalent)
Computer side:
Control Panel-> Network Connections-> The network connection you want to connect-> right click -> properties -> click Internet Protocol TCP/IP (in the box) ->Properties-> now click the circles to set IP addresses and DNS automatically.
Router:
Depends on router but make sure you enable DHCP.

~2. To use static assignments (opposite) In case DHCP is acting funny.
Computer Side:
same, except you set the IP addresses, like 192.168.0.2 or whichever make sure it's consistent.
Set DNS server/Gateway to the IP address of the router.

Router Side:
Disable DHCP if on
Assign the MAC address (network card's) of that computer to that IP address.

Now if you did all this they "should" see each other, unless Microsoft made a bad screwup.
I'm assuming you can connect to Internet with all computers.

[snoogit]

could always set static IPs, and see if that works.

[burazekun]

could always set static IPs, and see if that works.

I agree with snoogit. However the best bet is to fry vista for exsisting and beat it down with a baseball bat for its inability to be smart and do the process its self.

[iamnotspock]

get a Mac

[burazekun]

get a Mac

That wouldn't be a option for me. Nothing bad with Macs, besides their large prices and limited power selection. Also they dont have support for all the programs I use. However they are getting good at the compatibility and look neat to boot. But nothing like a custome built machine! Unless you really dont know how to choose the hardware O.o

[AgentofGaming]

get a Mac

Maybe getting a different operating system would be better in this context.

However laptops aren't exactly things that are meant to be modified.

[Vortex]

Lulz @ macs.

.............. Apple Scientology aside...

You aren't listing enough information OP. You need to be more specific with your exact network configuration. Is this wireless or wired? Do you have a DHCP server (typically a router) running, or is this a direct connection between the two machines? Are you trying to access files from one to the other, or are you just setting up a local LAN to share Internet access?


Windows workgroup names are pretty much worthless. They don't stop you from viewing other workgroups and accessing them. Its probably just one of those feel-good MS policies, but its pretty much a meaningless variable.

Windows XP has *terrible* network detection for some ungodly reason or another. Even when properly setup, it can sometimes freak out and fail to find anything in the network (usually its improperly setup, but it can fail normally). The fastest way to see if its working or not, regardless if you can "find" the other or not, is to go to explorer and type:

\\computername

\\ is the windows prefix for network access. If the network is setup right, you'll find the other computer almost immediately. Naturally, file and printer sharing will be entirely dependent on your security settings. Vista has more stable networking than windows, so you shouldn't have too much problem there. Its security settings are also laid out better.

Final note: If this is a direct lan connection with no hub, switch, or router between them, you will either need crossover cables or to run your NICs in bridge mode.