Setting up network and ICS over XP Pro and Home?

[davidkay]

Hi,

My friend just got a new laptop and wants to network them. However, his laptop came with XP Home. Instead of installing a hub he's using a direct connection between PC's using a Crossover cable. Both PC's are set up on MSHOME but neither PC's can see each other over the network, only themselves. Plus no data seems to be recieved by either card, but some is sent.

They did manage to pick up each other once, but after a reboot it didn't work again. Since i'm doing it using remote assistance i can't play around with his laptop. He mainly wants to get it working ofr Internet Connection Sharing.

What could be wrong. Any help is appreciated.

 

[JackMDS]

Urgent Need to configure Sharing

Important For the purpose of the initial setting, disable all software Firewall (including WinXP native ICF); disable any active Virus scan or any other utility that might intercept Network Traffic.

The following Collection of Links might help:

If you are not concern about internal security WinXP has a fast simple method of sharing, no user permissions, and no passwords.

Windows XP Simple File Sharing

WinXP Pro has an additional more secure method:

Windows XP Professional File Sharing.

XP File Sharing Trouble

 

[davidkay]

Its not the fact that i dont know how to do it. I've got my own network running using a router and it all works fine (use to use ICS before i had my router).

I'm mainly asking if anyone knows issues sharing an Internet connection and networking between Windows XP Pro and Home? Also does ICS actually work with Crossover connections (i.e. no hub just direct link between PC).

 

[JackMDS]

There is no problem sharing between WinXP Home, Pro, 2000, 98SE (even an Apple and Game boxes will work).

ICS does not care if it is a Hub or a Crossover.

However, ICS is Quirky. At times it does not work, and many times it would be crushing after extended usages.

 

[davidkay]

Can crossover cable also be used as Patch cable. I'm gonna plug my friends laptop into my router with his cable to test his cable isn't faulty or his laptop.

 

[JackMDS]

Originally posted by: davidkay
Can crossover cable also be used as Patch cable. I'm gonna plug my friends laptop into my router with his cable to test his cable isn't faulty or his laptop.

If by patch you mean straight CAT5 cable the answer is NO.

You can find basic info about the issue here:

AnandTech - FAQ. CAT5 Straight, Crossover. What is CAT5, which one should I Use?