how do I get my wireless dv4-1125 laptop to "see" my windows xp desktop ???

[ericuf]

I have them both connected through the same router, but can't seem to get them to "see" each other .. ?? I'd love to have remote desktop work, but can't seem to figure it out ... thanks.

[Kalt]

Set them next to each other and introduce them..

Seriously, you need to make sure they're in the same WORKGROUP and that you have File/Print sharing enabled on both computers.  If they're Vista, they both have to have Network Discovery turned on.  Also, your firewall settings must allow for them to see each other.

[ericuf]

desktop is NOT vista (xp)

can i have a somewhat step by step explanation of how to do this? (the workgroup thing) .. thanks

[CorMit]

Hello ericuf,

This should work for you ...

Step 1:
Choose a name for your network. Most businesses use some form of their business name, while people setting up home networks often use family names. Write the name down exactly as you spell it.

Step 2:
Adjust the workgroup name on the XP computer. Use the "Start" button, and then right-click "My Computer." Select "Properties." Click on the "Computer Name" tab to reveal the workgroup name. You can change the name by clicking "Change" and typing the new name in the "Computer Name" field. Save changes by clicking "OK."

Step 3:
Change the network name on the Vista machine. Use the "Start" button, and then click "Control Panel," "System and Maintenance" and "System." Look for "Computer Names, Domain, and Workgroup Settings" and click the "Change Settings" option. Go to "System Properties" and click on the "Computer Name" tab. Select the "Change" option. Type the network name you created in the field next to "Workgroup" in "Computer Name/Domain Changes." Save your changes by clicking "OK" and allow your computer to restart.

Step 4:
Set the Vista computers to a private network location for your local network. Go back to the "Control Panel" from the "Start" menu. Select the "Network and Internet" icon, and then click "Network and Sharing Center." You should see your network name and a designation next to the name. If the designation is "Public" or "Domain," click "Customize." Change the network type to "Private" in the box next to "Location Type" in the "Set Network Location" field. Save your changes by clicking "Next" and "Close."

Step 5:
Test your network to see if your XP and Vista computers are working together.

Additional Info:

If not seeing XP computer from the Vista Computer, download KB922120 ( Network Map in Windows Vista does not display computers that are running Windows XP ) on the XP computer

[ericuf]

That was seriously one of the most helpful posts I've read. Thank you so much. that totally worked.

My next question is, is there a way to just "get" into the desktop computer without having to go through the process of sharing individual files/folders (by right clicking and saying "share") ?? I'm thinkign along the lines of remote desktop/etc ...

[CorMit]

that all depends on the Vista version you have, be default only Business/Enterprise/Ultimate have Remote Desktop Connection ...

Home Premium/Home Basic does not have it by Default .. Click HERE to download the files to enable it on Home Premium .. the instructions are also included there ..

The instructions are:

1. Download termsrv.zip here
2. Extract Termsrv.zip to a temp directory
3. Start “Command Prompt” in Administrator mode (Run As Administrator)
4. Run the corresponding batch file for your Vista edition
5. Allow TCP Port 3389 on Windows Firewall or any other firewall product.
6. Done

Now Remote Desktop Connection should be installed and should work fine .. (Has worked for myself .. )