The File and Printer Sharing allows other computers on a Network to Access Resources on your Computer
· Each Computer should have unique name.
Ensure all computers must possess unique names on a peer-to-peer Windows network.
· Workgroup or Domain name for share Microsoft Network.
Home networks and other small LANs uses workgroups, whereas larger business networks operate with domains.
· Ensure TCP/IP is installed on all the Computers on the same network.
TCP/IP is the best network protocol to use when setting up a Windows LAN. In some circumstances, it's possible to use the alternative NetBEUI or IPX/SPX protocols for basic file sharing with Windows. However, these other protocols normally don't offer any additional functionality beyond what TCP/IP provides.
· Install TCP/IP protocol.
Most of the time, while installing your Network Adapter will also install the TCP/IP protocol that your computer needs to communicate with the Internet. You can quickly check to see if it's installed by opening your Network Control panel. Check the picture below.
Most of the time, while installing your Network Adapter will also install the TCP/IP protocol that your computer needs to communicate with the Internet. You can quickly check to see if it's installed by opening your Network Control panel. Check the picture below.
· IP Address and Subnet Mask needs to be correct.
The network mask "255.255.255.0" is normally correct for home networks. Each computer should have unique IP address. For settings are found in the TCP/IP network configuration.
· Enable File and Printer Sharing.
"File and Printer Sharing” is a Windows network service. This service must be installed on a network adapter to enable that computer to participate in file sharing. Ensure this service is installed by viewing the adapter's properties and verifying that
o This service appears in the list of installed items
o The checkbox next to this service is checked in the 'ON' position.
· Temporarily or Permanently Disable Firewalls.
You may receive some errors while sharing files, this is because of ICF (The Internet Connection Firewall) feature of Windows XP computers will interfere with peer-to-peer file sharing.
· Verify Shares are Correctly Defined.
In order to share files on a Windows network, ultimately one or more network shares must be defined. Share names that end with a dollar sign ($) will not appear in the list of shared folders when browsing the network (although these can still be accessed).
