Admin & hidden shares on an XP workgroup

[tantone]

I've got two PC's on a simple workgroup, sharing a DSL connection through a LinkSys DSL Router/Switch. I can ping each one from the other, and I can pull up a list of shares in explorer by using the standard UNC name of each. I can even specify a share on one PC and see it on the other.

However, I can't access the workgroup visually through Network Places (I get an access denied error), and I can't seem to connect to the default hidden shares (c$, d$) either even though user accounts are identical--as are passwords--other both machines.

NT was never this complex. What gives? Am I missing something here or did I just forget a step along the way?

Both PC's have File and Printer Sharing installed, they're both on the same network (192.168.1.0), and I can even net send to both.

Any ideas?

[BipolarBill]

Your Workgroup names are not uniform. One is likely MSHOME and the other WORKGROUP.

[tantone]

Actually, when I ran through the network settings the first time, I specifically checked that because I saw MSHOME on the second box. I manually set them both to WORKGROUP and I still can't see anything. And yes, I did reboot as asked after making the changes.

Any other ideas?

[BipolarBill]

I would remove the NIC in Device Manager on each PC and reboot, refreshing the drivers and TCP/IP stack. Check the properties for the shares too.

I had a similar problem when I first set up XP Pro. I fished around in Local Security Settings and found that one user was denied access over the network - me! :p

[BipolarBill]

Oh...be sure that all PCs have unique names. I always forget that one. :rolleyes:

[tantone]

Both PC's have unique names.

That local security setting you're referring to: is that a default setting when XP Pro is installed?

You know, come to think of it, one PC was upgraded from ME. I wonder if that may have something to do with the difficulty I'm having.

Unfortunately, I'm 1500 miles from that LAN and I won't be back to take a look for another few weeks.

[BipolarBill]

upgraded from ME. I wonder if that may have something to do with the difficulty I'm having. Most definitely. Upgrades stink as a rule.That local security setting you're referring to: is that a default setting when XP Pro is installed? Go to Administrative Tools > Local Security Settings. Be prepared to be overwhelmed. There are many ways to control Pro and the connections to and from it.