Another Vista/XP Network Question

[pippyn2]

I've read several posts on the topic, but not found any answers. Her'esmy problem:

Originally had two XP machines on home network (wired) called MSHOME. Worked dandy. Both pcs could access shared files on the other and both could use the printer on the primary.

Replaced the primary (which has the printer) with Vista machine. Fired up the Vista and it claims to be on "Network2". Under network 2 are two workgroups: WORKGROUP which has one pc, the vista, and MSHOME which has one pc, the xp.

the good news: The vista can see and access files on the xp, and ofcourse print to the printer.

the bad news: the xp can see the vista but not access files, map a drive or even see the printer to add it.

Before you ask, I did actually share some files on the vista and i did share the printer. i also turned off password on the printer.

I suspect i need to get the 2 pcs on the same workgroup, but the vista only seems to want to create wireless, internet, or vpn networks.

Any ideas? --pip

[pippyn2]

well, i found where to change the name of the workgroup, so the two pcs now match and show in the same workgroup (MSHOME). Alas, the xp still sees the vista but is unable to see files or printer.

What do I try next?

[pippyn2]

wow, i'm overwhelmed with all the responses ::wink::

either no one knows the answer (in which case you'll be pleased because i fixed it) or no one reads this forum (in which you'll neither know nor care).

regardless, here is the solution. i read this doc: http://www.microsoft.com/technet/network/evaluate/vista_fp.mspx

and in the end, all i had to do was change from a public to private network on the vista. then on the xp i had to go into windows explorer and click on the vista computer and type in the user (which i had added to vista even though i disabled password checking). once i did that it popped open a window with my file folders and printer. i clicked on the printer and it said it would automatically add the printer. i let it and then went to control panel/printers and set that to default.

i may need to reconnect after reboots, but it's working!

[sicarie]

Awesome, thanks for posting pippyn2!