Network an XP PC with a Macbook

Grady · 07-01-08, 09:37 PM

I have a windows XP PC connected via ethernet to the Sky Netgear D9834GT router which is also connected wirelessly to my Macbook. I have followed loads of threads but can't seem to net the 2 computers to recognise each other. They both appear in the router settings page under connected devices but not in the Windows Network places even though both workgroup names are the same and file sharing is enabled on both. I have OS X Leopard on the Mac.

Any help will be appreciated. The main aim is to print wirelessly from the laptop.

Cheers.

Grady · 07-01-08, 09:47 PM

Sorry, should read Netgear DG834GT

fihart · 08-01-08, 11:23 AM

When connecting a friend's Mac systems to a wireless router I had to resort to WEP128 as it was the only encryption method which seemed to be common to both of the Macs and to the router. It's a pain because the password and HEX codes are so long. Also there are differences in terminology between Mac and Windows and PC orientated products such as routers. It took several days and we gave up on the older Mac.

I suspect it's all a plot to force Apple owners to buy a £172 Airport Extreme router instead of the £50 routers PC users are familiar with.

the_sky_goat · 08-01-08, 05:06 PM

FIHART: What crap! All intel macs are fully compatible with WPA. I can understand you having a problem with an older mac - after all, it would have been released before WPA was a ratified standard... Buying an Airport Extreme is not going to magically give an old mac a new network card!

Anyway, the original poster states that the mac is connected to the router, but not showing in the windows network...

GRADY: Have you enabled 'Windows' Sharing on the mac? And have you shared any devices yet?

Grady · 08-01-08, 11:37 PM

I am using OS X Leopard so I have enabled 'file sharing' and ticked the smb box. When you tick this box you are asked to enter a User account and password. I presume this is the Windows XP user account and password? Does this mean I must have a password on my User Account on XP?

I'm not sure what you mean by connected to any devices but the only thing in 'My Network Places' on XP is the netgear router. However, If I log in to the router and view 'attached devices' I can see the mac and my PC comes up as unknown even though I have named it.

Please help!!

Grady · 26-08-08, 09:08 PM

Anyone?