I want to set up a network between two computers. One is running Win2k and the other is running Win98. I simply want to share files and a printer between the machines. My problem is that after setting up the protocols (I have tried both TCP/IP and NETBeui) and binding them to the proper adapters, the machines cannot see each other. I have turned on sharing on each HD. I am connecting through a 3com Hub using CAT5 cables. Suggestions? Thx.

Ok, first try pinging from one machine to the other, ie. run a dos prompt and type 'PING x.x.x.x' (exclude the quotes and enter the other machines IP address in the x's) If you can get a ping, then the machines are communicating - If they are communicating, check that both machines are in the same workgroup. Once the machines are in the same workgroup, run a 'Find computer' search from one computer and search for the other computers name. contact me for further help?

Tony, how do you find out a computer's "name"? Thanks, HC

Tony, I had already tried to ping each machine and could not. I should have mentioned that earlier. I have checked the lights on the adapters and they are both showing working. The port status on the hub also shows the connections to be working. I have switched ports on the Hub as well but that had no effect. I should also have mentioned earlier that both machines are in the same workgroup and that each machine can see itself on the network. Next steps? Thx, Jose

Jose- This is a pretty weak suggestion, as it appears you definitely know what you're doing, but are you sure you are using straight-through CAT5 cables, and not crossover cables? I just can't see anything else you might have missed!

Excellent tutorials at: http://www.helmig.com http://www.practicallynetworked.com They will both take you through it all from basics upwards.

Never hurts to check but yes they are straight through cables. I have some cross over cables but are too short. Tony suggested that I try using the cross over cables so I am going to see if I can get some longer ones. Jose