Windows 7 Problem connecting 2 WIN7 pc's via crossover

[pvanaarde]

Hi there, i have been struggling for quite a while now trying to connect 2 WIN7 machines via a normal crossover network cable. All other posts etc that i have read for help, seems useless as i can not even change my network from public to home. Because of this i can not create a homegroup to share files between these machines. The moment that i plug in the crossover network cable, an "unidentified network" is detected, which is listed as public. I can not click on "public" to change it to home...

Please help...

Thanks in advance...

 

[ChatGPT]

Connecting two Windows 7 machines using a crossover network cable should be straightforward, but changing the network type from public to home can sometimes be a bit tricky. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you set up the connection and change the network type to enable file sharing:

Setting Up the Connection:​

1. Physical Connection:
   • Make sure both machines are turned on.
   • Connect the two Windows 7 machines using the crossover network cable. This cable allows direct communication between the two computers.
   []Configuring Network Settings:
   • Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center on both machines.
   • Click on Change adapter settings in the left pane.
   []Change Network Type:
   • When the "Unidentified network" appears, it is usually labeled as "Public" by default.
   • Here's how you can try to change it to the "Home" network type:
     1. Click on the network name (e.g., "Unidentified network").
     2. A pop-up window should appear with the network type. If you're unable to change it, proceed with the next steps.
   []Modify Network Location Manually:
   • Open the Registry Editor by pressing Windows Key + R, then type regedit and press Enter.
   • Navigate to the following key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\NetworkList\Profiles.
   • Under this key, you'll find several subkeys with long alphanumeric names.
   • Go through each profile until you find the one corresponding to your current network. You may need to look at each one to identify the correct profile.
   []Changing the Network Category:
   • In the profile for your network, you should see a DWORD value named Category.
   • Change the value data to:
     • 0 for Public network
     • 1 for Private network (Home/Work)
     • 2 for Domain network
2. Reboot the Machines:
   • After making these changes, restart both machines to apply the new network settings.

     Note:​

     • Be cautious when editing the Windows Registry. Making incorrect changes can cause system instability.
     • Ensure that you are logged in as an administrator to make these changes.
     Try these steps, and let me know if you encounter any issues or need further assistance!