hi i am currently running windows xp on my desktop and windows vista ultimate on my laptop.when i connect both of them via lan and share drives,i am able to browse drives on my desktop but i am unable to browse drives on my laptop from my desktop(running windows xp).it says something like you dont have permission aLwAyZ sMiLe n bE hApPy !!

You say 'share drives', presumably sharing the complete drive. If so, you have to make ‘Everyone’ appear in the Security Tab on the Vista machine. This definitely works, have a look here http://www.hardwarecanucks.com/vist...

It should be noted that sharing the entire drive is not recommended for security reasons. Very likely, you don't need things shared like your Windows directory. The more that's shared, the more that could be attacked. "Enough, enough bowing down to disillusion! Hats off & applause to rogues & evolution! The ripple effect is too good not to mention. If you’re not affected, you’re not paying attention!"

well. i did make 'everyone' appear in the security tab. actually the main problem for me is about the lan gaming. i am unable to get access of any kind from xp to vista other than the public folder. like it also doesnt create any game server if i try to. nor can i join a server from my xp to vista running machine aLwAyZ sMiLe n bE hApPy !!

Check the Windows Firewall settings on the Vista machine. "Enough, enough bowing down to disillusion! Hats off & applause to rogues & evolution! The ripple effect is too good not to mention. If you’re not affected, you’re not paying attention!"

checked that too. even tried turning it off but it didn't help aLwAyZ sMiLe n bE hApPy !!

In vista you have to create incoming connections (it's under the control panel under network connections, mine is listed right next to the local area connection) with usernames and passwords in order for the computer running XP to see the files on the computer running Vista. Honestly, I stumbled across this by accident and don't remember how i set them up (I am new to Vista, only had for 3 weeks now) so if someone else can help here it would be appreciated.