TCP Ports
c:\> netstat -an
Displays active ports.
137 - 139 - Windows File sharing using (NETBIOS)
445 - Microsoft Directory Server (Microsoft-DS) (Win2000 & XP - File sharing)
File Sharing a directory
If have problems with the steps below, see the Firewall information below to Disable for testing.
Create a directory that you want to share with other computers on a network
Right click on the directory and choose "Properties", the click the "Sharing" tab.
Click "Share this folder on the network". Optionally: "Allow network users to change my files".
You should now see this directory from another computer if you go to "My Network Places","Entire Network", "Microsoft Windows Network" and click on the appropriate workgroup.
Note: You will get a Windows use logon screen if your Windows Account and Password is not the same on your PC and the other PC.
Printer Sharing
If have problems with the steps below, see the Firewall information below to Disable for testing.
Locate the Printer you want to connect to using "My Network Places" using "Windows Explorer" (see the steps for "File Sharing a Directory" above).
Once you click on the Computer Name, then click "Printers and Faxes".
Right click on the printer and choose "Connect"
(this will install the necessary print drivers and establish a connect to this
computers printer).
Test - Control Panel, "Printer and Faxes". You should see the printer listed. Now try printing to the printer. I use "NotePad" to test.
Disable the firewall and see if your networking (File/Print Sharing) starts working.
Windows Firewall - XP
McAfee Personal Firewall
Disable the Personal Firewall
Right click on the icon (McAfee System Security) in the system tray.
Choose "Personal Firewall", "Disable"
Configure "McAfee Personal Firewall" to allow File & Print Sharing.
Launch "McAfee Security Center"
Click the menu option on the left called "Personal Firewall Plus"
Click "Options"
Click "System Services"
Check "Windows File Sharing (NETBIOS) ports 137-139"
Zone Labs
My version (corporate) would not allow me to "Disable".
Firewall (My notes - may not work! UNDER DEVELOPMENT)
Launch "Zone Labs Integrity Desktop"
Click "Firewall" on the left side.
Click the "Main" tab.
Internet Zone Security - "Med"
Trusted Zone Security - "Low"
Click "Advanced" in the lower right corner.
Under "Network Settings" click "Ask which Zone to place new networks in upon detection".