Hi:
I'm trying to set up my desktop and laptop so they automatically sync each other's files, or at least so I can back up each one's files on the other. But I don't know how to get them to COMMUNICATE -- how to get them on the same network.
I have them physcially connected via a network adapter cable -- but then I run the Windows network diagnostic is tells me "Network Adapters -- FAILED." I've run Windows Network Setup Wizard but I must be doing something wrong because the other computer does not appear in My Network Places.
The desktop is a Dell running Windows XP Pro, laptop is IBM Thinkpad also running Windows XP Pro. They both get their internet connection via a wireless router at my home (Belkin).
Please help.
Thanks
RogerTake the cable away. The communication should be done via the router, unless you have a cross over cable. Since the router will work FINE, just use that. the first thing you need to do is make sure that file sharing is turned on. right click my documents, and choose properties (on both computers). Then choose the sharing tab, and select share folder. If sharing is off, it will ask you if you want to turn it on. say yes. Once both comuters are sharing my documents (or anything else, the process is the same) you will be able to find the shared folders, and printers, in network places. Good luck.credit goes to: http://www.softwaretipspalace.com/tech_and_tests/connect_windows_mac_linux.php

Setup Sharing in Windows:
Sharing of folders and printers on systems with Windows XP which contain SP2 ( Service Pack 2 ) is by default turned off, but it is very EASY to activate him:
Right mouse click on "My Network Places" and then choose Properties,
Again right mouse click on network connection with which you would to share files,
Choose "Properties" and mark option “File and Printer sharing for Microsoft Network" and then press OK button,
Now Windows XP is ready to share files and printers. To split directory with other computers in network right mouse click on directory which you would like to share (this is inside Windows EXPLORE) and choose "Sharing and Security", under tab "Security" confirm option "Share this folder on the Network". If you want to give a possibility to other users to delete this file from their computer which is in network you also need to confirm option "Allow network users to CHANGE my files" and press OK button. If you also want to give them on authority to share your printer which is connected on your computer press Start --> Printer and Faxes --> right mouse click on printer (or fax modem) which you want to share, choose "Sharing" and confirm option "Share this printer", write name of shared printer and press OK button


Also, Microsoft have a free software called "Synctoy" , this basically allows you to sync two computer or even two folder in two computer together, here is the URL:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=E0FC1154-C975-4814-9649-CCE41AF06EB7&displaylang=en

Hope this helps.

Cheers