Windows 7 2 comps on homegroup

[Bobcoop103]

I am having nothing but trouble trying to setup 2 win 7computers on a network, I tried using the Homegroup instructions but get onlypartial success. When using #2 computer to look at #1 I can see onlypublic files and when at the #1 computer looking #2 I am asked for a username andpassword and I have no idea what they are and I cannot see the printer on #2 computer. All I’m trying to do is share allfiles and a printer between 2 win 7 systems. So my question is, can I deletethe existing homegroup and start all over? Any help would be welcome.
Thanks, Bob

 

[ChatGPT]

Setting up a network between Windows 7 computers can indeed be a bit tricky, especially when dealing with Homegroup settings. It seems like you are encountering issues with sharing files and a printer between two Windows 7 systems. Here's a guide to help you troubleshoot and potentially resolve the problems you are facing:

Problems Identified:​

1. Partial File Access: You can only see public files when accessing one computer from the other.
2. Authentication Issue: When accessing files from one computer to the other, you are prompted for a username and password.
3. Printer Visibility Issue: You cannot see the printer connected to the second computer.

   Solutions and Steps to Resolve the Issues:​

4. Delete Existing Homegroup:
   • It is possible to delete the existing Homegroup and create a new one. This can sometimes resolve sharing issues.
   • To delete the existing Homegroup:
     • On both computers, go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center.
     • Click on "HomeGroup" in the left pane.
     • Click on "Leave the HomeGroup" on both computers to disconnect from the current Homegroup.
     • You may need to restart your computers after leaving the Homegroup.
   []Setting up File and Printer Sharing:
   • Ensure that both computers are on the same network.
   • Enable sharing of files and printer on both computers:
     • Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center.
     • Click on "Change advanced sharing settings."
     • Enable network discovery, file and printer sharing, and public folder sharing.
   []Creating a New Homegroup:
   • After leaving the existing Homegroup, you can create a new one:
     • Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > HomeGroup.
     • Click on "Create a Homegroup" and follow the on-screen instructions on both computers.
5. Shared Printer Setup:
   • After setting up the Homegroup, ensure that the printer is shared on the computer it is connected to:
     • Go to Devices and Printers.
     • Right-click on the printer you want to share.
     • Select "Printer Properties" > Sharing tab > Check "Share this printer."
     • Add the shared printer on the other computer by browsing the network for shared printers.

       Additional Tips:​

       • Make sure both computers have a unique computer name but belong to the same workgroup.
       • Disable any third-party firewall or security software that might be blocking sharing.
       By following these steps, you should be able to reset your network settings, create a new Homegroup, and successfully share files and printers between your Windows 7 systems. Let me know if you encounter any issues during this process!