How to set up a network Vista-XP ?

Question

Hi, I've been trying for three months to set up a network with my new Dell computer with Vista Home Premium and my old computer with XP Media Center, with a wired router Linksys BEFSR41 v4. I've read everything possible on the Internet about this. I've used the Vista and XP Network and Sharing Center to set up my network. On the Vista, I see the files and printers I want to share, but I am not allowed to access them, same thing on the XP. I have installed the patch on the XP. Nothing works. It must be a small thing I am not doing, but WHAT ??? Anyone with an idea ? I would appreciate very much. Thanks. Dell Dimension E520 Intel E6300 Windows Vista Home Premium Pentium 4 2.5 Windows XP Media Center

volcano11 · Answer

Have you set up all firewalls on both computers to allow local network access?   Steve

Monte-Cristo · Answer

Both Windows firewalls are disabled and I don't have any other one, except the router is, I have heard, a firewall in itself.

Monte-Cristo · Answer

No. I have only Avast antivirus on the Vista computer and NOD32 antivirus on the XP.

volcano11 · Answer

Does either computer have McAfee Security (standard on most new Dells) or Norton Intenret Security.  It's not the router's firewall that is blocking you.    Steve

volcano11 · Answer

Is file and printer sharing enabled on both computers?  Have you designated drives/folders/printers as shared resources on both computers?   Steve

Monte-Cristo · Answer

Yes. Both printers are on the XP computer though.

Monte-Cristo · Answer

Someone on another Forum suggested I use Network Magic. It's a software which sets the network automatically. It took two minutes, and my network and sharing are now working perfectly. If it can help someone else...

chasbox · Answer

Hi I had the same problem. Used Network Magic No help I just connected the printer to the Vista machine and now i can print from both

Networking, Internet, & Bluetooth

How to set up a network Vista-XP ?

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