OK...to keep it simple. I have 98se, 2000 pro and XP Pro all "networked" at home. The problem is I don't know when I boot them up if they will still be networked or not. I just had them on a week ago....all mapped to each others shared folder, but 2 days ago, 98 didn't see xp as far as mapping but did see it in network neighborhood. I have tried IPX/SPX which I was using anyways, dropped added it to the workgroup, changed names on both pc's. XP can see 98, 98 can't see xp. Yes I have a fireall which is a bit of over kill, (router and Black Ice) and these don't seem to be the problem. Is there just issues with all these OS's being networked?

XP has another firewall which may be an issue. Right click on Local Area Connection/properties/Advanced button/uncheck the firewall feature.

OK, this is strange, but you might try it..
one of my clients has 98SE machines for their workstations, with an XP Pro machine acting as file server (no domain - same workgroup.) For some unknown reason, ONE of their workstation sometimes just suddenly can't see the network at all. Nothing seems to help, all the settings are fine, I even replaced the network card trying to fix it. The solution? Click Logoff, then log back on. Presto - all network connections restored. It happens on an irregular basis, and that quick solution works each time.

If anyone knows WHY this happens, or how I can stop it (and the tech support calls I get because of it) please share.

Christopher,
Use TCPIP instead of IPX, and try enabiline NetBIOS over TCPIP in XP's setting.

Melissa,
How many computers are trying to connect to XP Pro machine that is acting as a server? Windows NT,2000 Pro, and XP Pro allow only a maxium of 10 concurrent network connections at a time. When an 11th connection is attempted, one will be knocked off.