Hi there, I would like to set up my Windows NT Server as a gateway. Now, configuration on this server PDC are: IP Address = 172.97.10.1, subnet = 255.255.255.0, gateways = 172.97.10.11 (Head Office) and BDC are: IP Address = 172.97.11.1, subnet = 255.255.255.0, gateways = 172.97.11.11 (Branch) I have allready setup like : route add, lmhost. why, if from client can't ping to computername at BDC, but ping to ip address no problem. i have allready set in lmhost for computername and domain for examp. 172.97.10.1 A #DOM:HELP (PDC) 172.97.11.1 B #DOM:HELP (BDC) Then I think this is alike solution. But I don't know how to solve the problems. Thanks PS : Please reply to me at iib@antam.co.id

Where is your WINS server? You can ping by IP address and that means that your TCP/IP properties are set up correctly. To ping by name, you must be able to resolve the name. If you want to use an LMHOSTS file, you must install it on every computer, it must be correct, and must be kept up to date. Save yourself the headaches and install WINS.

WINS is definitely a must when routing. Also, if you install RIP services or protocol your NT computer with two NICs will communitcate with other routers to obtain a dynamic routing table. Also, make sure enable IP forwarding is set for both cards TCP/IP settings. Also, make sure the correct IP config is set for each card in refernce to the subnet or network they are connected to.

Best thing is to install WINS server at PDC (H/O) & BDC (Branch) But it is very important that a WINS server point to itself as primary and secondary WINS in the TCP/IP configuration. If another config. is used, you may experience random inability in making certain network connection. LMHOSTS method also correct but to do some advanced configurations like replicating u'll face some problems ! If your problem is only to resolve the NETBIOS names, LMHOSTS would be fine, But to replicate the user database with the authentication server (PDC) you have to configure WINS server !