Hello,
I would first like to apologize, as I do realize this topic has been brought up before. I am absolutely stumped and unable to go any further. So here it goes...
I am trying to allow two networked computers use the same printer. Despite having read countless tutorials on the subject, I am still not able to send print jobs to the printer. Here's my situation in more detail...

2 desktop computers in separate rooms (both running windows xp)
COMPUTER #1 is directly connected to the printer by a usb connection
Computer #2 is in a separate room connects via ethernet
1 router, and each computer uses an ethernet cable connected to it (so no wireless connection obviously)
Both computers have networks set up, and shared printing is enabled.

Here are the steps I've used.
1. On computer #1&2, ensure that shared printing is enabled, and accessible through the network
2. On computer #2 added a network printer.
3. Browsed for printer, and located printer (I named it something distinctively different than the generic HP Officejet printer series 3200).
4. Selected printer clicked next.
5. I receive an error message saying that "Windows cannot connect to the printer. Either the printer name was typed incorrectly, or the specified printer has lost it's connection to the server. For more information, click help."
- I FIND this odd since A) I didn't type the name at all, but selected it from the browse list, and B) The printer in the other room is printing fine and is CURRENTLY online.

Could anyone offer any helpful advice as to why I cant seem to set this all to work? Thanks in advance.


Don't feel bad. What you've done is correct and is supposed to work, but it rarely does. I got this to work once by adding Local Printer instead of network printer. Makes no sense, but it worked. Works a whole lot better if the printer is connected to the router (wired or wireless).1. FIREWALLS. Check firewall settings. Ensure it's configured to permit "File and Printer Sharing". See: printer/file sharing trouble.

2. Reference(s):
Troubleshooting File and Printer Sharing in Microsoft Windows XP
File and Printer Sharing with Microsoft Windows

Troubleshooting Computer Browsing on SOHO Networks with Microsoft Windows
Computer Browsing for SOHO Networks with Microsoft Windows
Hey guys, thanks for the information. After consulting the links you provided, I was able to solve the problem. Apparently the Antivirus settings on computer 1 were blocking access to the printer. Now I am able use my networked printer properly. Thanks for the help.