Stupid question probably but...How do I share files and the printer on my network??

[stockjock]

I have a small network setup, 2 computers. The server is connected to cable and I am using ICS and WinME on both machines. The internet sharing is working without a hitch, but I cannot seem to share files or be able to use the printer on the client computer. What do I have to do to be able to share files and the printer on the client computer...

Thanks

 

[Nightfall]

You need to set up file and printer sharing. You also need to have both systems set up on the same IP block, and in the same workgroup.

Here is The Anandtech Guide to Networking which might help you. 🙂

 

[JackMDS]

Sharing:
Assuming that your hardware is functioning, and you are using the correct type of CAT5 cables.

All computers can have one, two, or three, of the following Network Protocols:

1. TCP/IP - must be installed for Internet
2. NetBEUI ? simple, no IP scheme, Internet safe (recommended as Default Protocol).
3. IPX/PX ? needed for some LAN games.

The three can reside together BUT - All computers must have the same Default Protocol..

All used Protocols are bound to the Ethernet Card.

All computers have the same Workgroup name.

Each computer has it own unique name.

Read this for Win 2000: Sharing Files/Printers between WinNT/Win2K


The following is the Sharing Setting in Win98!!!

You will not see a Computer in the Network Neighborhood, unless it shares something.

Make sure that you Logon as Client for Microsoft Network.

There are three places to be checked for sharing:

The first two are in Control Panel, Network.

1. The Protocol that you are using for sharing, has to be bound to Client for Microsoft Network, and Sharing is Checked in the protocol's properties menu.

2. The general File and Print Sharing has to be installed, and checked.

The third in "My Computer" folder.

3. Individual Drive or/and printer has to be checked for sharing.
Right click on the device to share, choose properties, click on the sharing Tab, check Shared As, and give it a name.

For printer:

Click My Computer, click on Printers, right click on the printer that you want to share, click on Properties, choose the Sharing tab, checked share, give it a name.


Important: The Shared Printer Drivers has to be installed on all computers that use this printer.

 

[stockjock]

OK..I think I'm getting what you guys have said...since my 2 computers are able to share the internet at this very moment...I suspect I am using the correct CAT cable...I also suspect that I have correct protocol setup because I can share the internet. So probably all I need to do is check those 3 places you mentioned to connect the printer and share files...am I thinking correctly???

 

[Nightfall]

Yup

 

[stockjock]

Thanks guys for the help. It works great now....can share files and the printer too....what a beautiful thing!!!