New Computer + Old computer

Sorry if my title isn't clear but I was unsure how to word it. Anyway here's the story. I just bought a new computer and would like to set up a Belkin Wireless G on it. I also bought a Belkin Wireless G USB Network adaptor. On the old computer I have many files that I would like to transfer to the new computer and I realize this shouldn't be difficult. My question is this. I had set up a hard wired network using the old computer is there anything I should do to the old computer before trying to now set up the wireless connection with it. Both computers have Windows XP on them. I hope this all makes sense. I haven't started anything yet. Thought I would check with you guys first before I get myself in trouble.

Lorreen

 

Spend US $6 and purchase a Cat5 "cross-over" cable. Connect old and new computers together with this wired network.
Use that to transfer the files. This will be at least four times faster than an ad-hoc wireless transfer, and more reliable.

Then if you want to use old and new computers in a wireless network, you want to create an "ad hoc" setup rather than "infrastructure. "

The SSIDs on both should be identical.
The channel set on both identical.
Set to ad-hoc rather than infrastructure.

And you are done. Remember to configure the firewalls to allow file and printer sharing.

If you intend to have internet access on both, see: http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/networking/expert/bowman_02april08.mspx

 

Bill, I've already set up the rounter and everything is running fine as far as the internet connection is concerned. I know a cross over cable would probably be faster BUT I'd just as soon use the wireless right now. Can't remember how to set up sharing though. Could you please direct me to a site? Also, have already forgotten what I named new computer - where do I look for what I named it.

Sorry to sound like such a ditz but my memory is failing today - that's what happens when you get old or should I say older.

Lorreen

 

To view the computer name:

Start, Run, CMD
Now type the word: set

To view and possibly modify the computer name:
Right click My Computer, Properties, Computer Name tab.

To do the file transfer, I strongly suggest using ROBOCOPY. The reasons why, links and discussion for this Microsoft utility I wrote about recently: http://www.windowsbbs.com/showthread.php?t=60749

For file sharing:

. XP Home, or XP Pro with Simple File Sharing enabled: http://www.practicallynetworked.com/sharing/xp/filesharing.htm

. XP Pro with Simple File Sharing disabled:
http://www.practicallynetworked.com/sharing/xp_filesharing/index.htm

 

OK here I go again. The router is all set up and internet is working great on both computers. Signal from router is "excellent. "

However I have run the XP wizard to set up file sharing and have come up blank. I see no sharing ability anywhere. I did follow Bills links and I think I did everything that Microsoft suggested but I'm missing something. Can someone walk me through this. I really would appreciate it. I'm so frustrated.

Thanks, Lorreen

 

The Wizard does not create shares.

In Windows Explorer, Right click on a Folder and choose Sharing and Security. Under that applet it will let you create a new Sharename and set access permissions.

Be sure you know what folders are in fact shareable under standard security settings, and how to change the settings: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/304040

 

Bill, thanks for all your help. Got up this morning with a clear mind and set up file sharing without a hitch, couldn't have been easier. Have transferred all the files I need and probably some I didn't. Now my next job will be to completely wipe the old computer clean and reinstall the OS. Wish me luck.

Lorreen

 

I wish you luck and best wishes for the New Year.
Bill

 

Transfer files between computers

You can use Microsoft Messenger as a tool to easily move large files from one computer on your router network to another.
After connection if you send a file from one msn messenger account to the other computer the connection will be made at Microsoft headquarters but the transfer will occur at high speeds through the router from one computer to another directly via the modem and not over the internet.
You can save the cost of the cat cable as well as the wiring for you to stumble over.
G wireless offers faster transfer speeds than older b versions especially if you are within 30 feet or so of the router.