I need to set up a simple workgroup for 12 xp workstations on a win 2003 server (used as file server). I've asinged static ip's to all machine's and set up my subnet mask, set all dns to my server's ip# have my workgroup named the same on all machines I can see all workstations from server but can't access server from worstations what am I doing Wrong?

I guess it depends on if you are running a domain controller. You can't run workgroups from it as far as I know. If it is just a server then be sure you know the difference between shares and ACL's. They both have to be correct. Also you might have to use Active Directory to add computers and users. I am still trying to study so this answer may not be exactly correct. It will not be the same as an NT setup.

if u r using xp home, u nay be able to use the NET USE command to map a network drive to the server, put it in a batch file and run from startup. xp home doesnt remember passwords for domain logon

Thank for replies, I have found that win-xp and server 2003 do not like identical nic cards, after changing the one on the server all my workstations connected. Also the dns entry is not necessary for a simple workgroup.