Enabling Open Shares on XP

[Lonestar567]

I would just to like know how to enable open shares on XP Pro without resorting to Simple File Sharing.
I just want the ability to share a folder or two so that when any of my friends come over and plug in, i don't have to give them specific access to the game mods folder or something.
I've tried enabling one folder with the "everyone" account (both in permissions and security, allowing only reading to take place). and that doesn't do squat.

Worse yet, i can't even view the folders i've shared to any degree on any computer. They always want a username and password.
I just want it to the point where special folders, i'll lock down, but they are still visible (just not reable).

I'm begging for help here,
Thanks

 

[gunrunnerjohn]

Probably the easiest way is to enable the guest account in Users & Passwords in Control Panel. Then any shares for "everybody" will be available.

 

[Lonestar567]

Ah, i forgot to mention i did that as well.
On two computers i turned on the guest account under the User Accounts icon in the control panel.
yet, it still ignores my settings.