computer problems
 

I have a laptop running win xp pro and a desktop running the worst os ever windowms me. The cd burner on my laptop is not working properly so I need to find a way to put files from my laptop onto my desktop. I tried connecting them directly with and ethernet cord but the 2 os were not commatible with the whole home networking setup. Anyone have any ideas? thanks

Perfect job for a USB flash drive. You can find them on sale sometimes, like right now Frys has a 64 meg for $10. If you can't find it anywhere else, Radio Shack has 'em, but much bigger price.

you need a network hub or a crossover cable. also make sure both computers are within the same ip range. if you do not have a network hub, then you need a crossover cable, which will allow the two computer to be connected via a network cable without a hub. a standard network cable will not work.

IE.

Computer 1:
IP: 192.168.1.2
SUbnet Mask: 255.255.255.0

Computer 2:
IP: 192.168.1.3
Subnet Mask 255.255.255.0

Make sure the windows ME system has file and printer sharing enabled, and the primary network logon is set to Microsoft windows network.

Make sure both computer have different names.

ME:
network properties - identification tab.
workgroup should eb the same name as the workgroup ont he XP computer
Name should be something different than the xp machine. I.E. ME and work group should be workgroup.

XP:
My computer properties - network tab
Workgroup name again should eb the same as the ME machine.
Comuter name should be different I.E. XP for the name, workgroup as the workgroup name.

Share the folder you want to access that has the files in it.

on both computers, DNS and gateway settings are not needed for local networking. Make sure to write down any settinsg that are there before changing them, so you can change them back when you are done.

a 3rd method, which is more for tech people, is to get a laptop 2.5" ide to 3.5" ide converter plug, then take the laptop hard drive out of the laptop and hook it in to the desktop.

Alon

I think i'll get that crossover cable thanks for all the suggestions.