How do I configure my system so that multiple computers, connected with a hub to my Zoom Ethernet ADSL modem, can see each other and share resources?

To allow multiple computers to see and communicate with each other in a Windows LAN environment you will need to set up each computer in a Workgroup and then enable and configure Microsoft File and Printer Sharing to share your resources.

Workgroup

To setup your computers in a Workgroup, follow these steps:

• Click Start, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
• Double-click the Network icon
• Click the Identification tab. Assign each computer a meaningful name. The name will appear in Network Neighborhood.
• Enter a Workgroup name. Assign every computer to that Workgroup name. You can type a description that specifies what this computer is used for or who works on it.
• Click OK.
• Restart your computer.

Now you can configure the resources that you want to share.

Configuring File & Printer Sharing

To share resources such as Printers, Folders, and Files you will need to enable and configure File and Printer Sharing.

• Click Start, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
• Double-click the Network icon.
• Click the Network Configuration tab.
• Click File And Printer Sharing.
• Click to select the check boxes for Access to Files and Printer.
• Click OK to close all the windows.
• Insert the Windows CD when prompted to do so, and then restart your computer.

Now you can view all the computers in your workgroup by using the Network Neighborhood icon on your desktop.

Sharing Folders

After the restart, follow these steps to share folders and files that you want to use on other computers.

• Locate a folder on the computer.
• Right-click the File, and then click Sharing.
• Enter a Share Name. The folder appears under this name in Network Neighborhood. You can also type a comment that describes the resource. Note: The share name and the folder name do not have to be the same.
• Determine the User Rights. Note: If you select Read-Only or Full Access you must assign a password.
• Click OK. The shared folder icon will now appear with a hand.

You can now access the shared folder through the Network Neighborhood Icon on your Desktop.

Related Links:

How to set up resource sharing in MAC OS X - FAQ 835
How to set up resource sharing in MAC OS 8 & 9 - FAQ 834.
How to set up resource sharing in Windows 2000 - FAQ 832
How to set up resource sharing in Windows XP - FAQ 833.