I have 5 Intel PC's running XP Pro connected thru a 16 port switch to a 2Wire router/DSL modem to broadband. All but 1 PC share files and printers with NO problem. On the other one, no matter what I do, I can Not configure it to allow sharing. It shows up as a workgroup member and can gain access to the 4 PCs and their files, etc. I've substituted NIC's, cables, switched ports on the switch, even installed a wireless adapter, all with no improved results. I'm stumped. Can anyone help?

Summarized: You have one special pc, where you share files, but can't be accessed by the other pc's? Is there a firewall running on that pc? You need to open the following ports for windows file sharing: Port TCP 445 - Windows LSASS file sharing Port TCP 135 - Windows NetBIOS Port TCP 139 - Windows File sharing Port UDP 137 - Windows NetBIOS NS Port UDP 135 - Windows DCE (for Windows 95/98)

Thanks for the reply, The setup is not exactly as you summarize. All PCs are configured to share files and printers. Four have no problem sharing with each other.. One does. All are late model Intel with XP-Pro. The one that will not share its files or printer can gain access to the other four and use their files and/or printers. Apparently I have a one-way link problem on the ethernet that prevents the four to access the one. I suspected NIC, so I replaced it. I replaced cable segments. I disabled NIC and added wireless link. It behaves as if it had a firewall, but the network wizard reports that the firewall is configured for file and printer sharing. I will disable firewall (they are behind a router, so I can experiment with firewall safely). If that helps, I will do the port thing you recommended.

Thanks, Paulsep. I'm embarassed that I did not think of the firewall possibility. Actually we had 2 firewalls ON. Windows and the Anti-virus package (McAfee) both were on. I stopped the McAfee firewall, rebooted and the printer showed up in the available list, I was able to connect and print. Many thanks, again.

My pleasure :-)