Windows XP - WORKGROUP IS NOT ACCESSIBLE

[SKent]

I wasn't sure which forum to post this in. So if I am wrong I apoligize up front. Here is my problem
I have two computers, both are running Windows XP Pro, Service Pack 2 with all updates. Both computers are Dell. One is a laptop, the other a desktop. I am setting them up as a WORKGROUP for a small network configuration. What I am trying to do is actually share a couple of printers attached to the desktop, with the laptop. Both computers workgroups are named the same WORKGROUP. Two userid's are on each computer, both the same (Husband and wife). Both users have admin rights to each other's machine as well as their own. I have installed File and Printer sharing on both computer. and I have shared the printers. OK now comes the twist.
When I browse the workgroup from the desktop. I can actually see both computers in the workgroup and I can access the shared files and printers that are on the laptop. BUT, when I browse the WORKGROUP from the laptop, sometimes it allows me to see both computers, sometimes not. but never can I see or access the shared printers on the desktop. I get the following error

"Workgroup is not accessible. You might not have permission to use this network resource. Contact the administrator of the server t find out if you have access permission."
and below this
"The network path was not found"

I am about to pull out my hair and I don't much left. I think I have tried everything, but I am SURE open to suggestions.

Thanks

 

[Enkrypted]

Are you using anything like ZoneAlarm that might be blocking acess from one pc to the other? I would doublecheck your firewall settings to make sure that is not the case. Also, if either machine has PC-cillin on it I would disable that. That has been known to cause some issues like that.

Enkrypted
A+

 

[wolluf]

Just add a bit more - the windows firewall should be set to allow File and Printer sharing automatically when you start using sharing - but sometimes don't - so might be worth checking windows firewall settings on the laptop (sharing something - folder - on the laptop might trigger it being set).

Both machines are using sharing in same way (simplified or not)?

What happens if you try to access machine directly by name or ip address (ie, type \\machinename or \\machine ip address in the run box).

 

[SKent]

I'll check on these and let you know .. thanks for the tips

 

[smah]

Add passwords to both accounts. If that doesn't do it, see if this helps

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/318030/en-us

 

[linney]

Have a look at some of the suggestions in this thread.

networking problem
thread779-1283245

Use these for general help.

Simple File Sharing- enabled

http://www.practicallynetworked.com/sharing/xp/filesharing.htm

Simple File Sharing - disabled

http://www.practicallynetworked.com/sharing/xp_filesharing/index.htm

http://www.michna.com/kb/wxnet.htm