Adding Win2k to a WinXP network

[peekaboo]

I have 3 computers connected through an Asante 1004 router.
2 are running XP pro and 1 is running Win2k.
Just set up a network for file and printer sharing and the 2 XP computers seem to be working nicely.
I cannot seem to connect the Win2k computer.
Can anyone guide me?

[glc]

1. Are you using simple filesharing on the XP boxes?
2. Exactly what do you want the 2K box to be able to do?
3. How concerned are you about security?

[peekaboo]

1. i'm unfamiliar with the different methods of filesharing. I simply checked the "share this folder on the network" box when i right-clicked the folder.

2. i want to be able to access the files on the 2k box from my xp box. (mainly, copy the files).

3. i'm not familiar with the dangers. i have the router and a firewall on all computers, how concerned should i be? I'm not hiding any govt. secrets on my computers but i'd rather not give others the ability to view my files.

Thanks

[glc]

Would you be happy with being able to access the XP boxes from the 2K box and copy them that direction? If so, just make sure the 2K box is in the same workgroup and you should be able to access the XP shares through My Network Places. If you want to go the other direction, you will also have to share folders on the 2K box and enable its Guest account.

[peekaboo]

could you guide me on how to enable it's guest account?
I tried to do it a couple of days ago and no luck.

thanks

[glc]

Right click on My Computer, Manage. Local users and groups, users. Double click Guest and uncheck the box for disabling the account.

[peekaboo]

Success!
Thanks glc.

Does this mean that any computer anywhere who names itself as part of a network with the same name as i have chosen will be able to see my files?

[glc]

As long as the NetBIOS ports in the router are closed, nope.

The best way to add another layer of security is this - install NetBEUI on all the machines, then disable NetBIOS over TCP/IP.

With 2K, NetBEUI installs easily - just open the properties of the local area connection, install, protocol, and it's in the pick list. XP is a bit more involved:

http://support.microsoft.com/default...301041&sd=tech

To turn off NetBIOS over TCP/IP, it's in TCP/IP properties, advanced, WINS tab.