I have four Windows XP machines networked via cat5 and a hub. One of the machines acts as the server for file sharing and it has a dialup connection with ICS. The other three machines have been configured with static IP addresses (192.168.0.X) and they use the "Server" for their internet access. The problem: The modem dials out frequently. Even when the machines are not using IE or Outlook Express. I have disabled XP auto update and Norton AV auto update and I can't think of anything else that is making requests for public access. Any thoughts on this problem? Can I specify ports (80 and 25) on the internet connection sharing to prevent obscure requests? Your input will be appreciated.

Try disabling "Dial When a Network Connection is Not Present" in your settings. Are you using Compaq computers by any chance? -=Bryan=-

Maybe you should try this. Since you have connection to one of the Xp and have set up as the distrubutor, clear the static IP on the other 3 XP and not use Static IP. Then go to the IP config and type renew the ip and then reboot it. This should work.

Reply to Brian: Nope, not Compaq. All custom built boxes. Reply to Steve: I did the static IP's to maintain the connectivity to the file share. The IP will be 169.x.x.x when not connected and 192.x.x.x when connected and I need a continuous connection to the Server shares. ( I suppose I could use another protocol.)