Trouble with HomeGroups

[Bloodfire]

Ok, so I have two computers both with Win7 Pro one is a desktop the other is a laptop. I am using the desktop as the so-called server I will start the HomeGroup with. The trouble I am having is that the laptop refuses to connect to the HomeGroup. I put the password that windows gives me in verbatim, and even tried to change the password to a more simpler one till I got it connected. What I am finding odd as well, is that if I turn on network discovery on both computers, the desktop sees the laptop but the laptop cannot see the desktop. Yet the laptop can identify a HomeGroup exists on the network and what computer it originated from. Also, I seem to have issues accessing data on the laptop despite enabling files to be shared.

What is causing the network discovery issues?
Why can I not get the laptop to connect to HomeGroups?
What am I doing wrong when attempting to access shared files?

EDIT: Router is a netgear with wireless built in and the laptop connects to it this way, desktop connects wired. FYI

thx much in advance.

[Franzer]

If you're just connecting on a home network, you don't need to input any kind of homegroup password. It sounds like you need to give access to what you are trying to share though. If its just a folder on your server, right click on it, and go to sharing, and make sure the permissions are the way you want them. As long as your computer is on the same network as your desktop, you shouldn't have any problems as far as your router is concerned, but you can check. In a browser open up your admin for your router (192.168.1.2 i think for netgear?) and take a peek.

[Cooleko]

I dont have two win7 PCs (I have Vista/Win7 combo) so I didnt use their homegroup password. If you dont mind doing it the old way then dont use homegroups. Just make sure both are using the same WORKGROUP.

Once both PCs use the same WORKGROUP, go into folder properties (from anywhere) and select to not use windows file sharing (at bottom of list).
Then enable all the options you discussed in your post and enjoy a working connection (dont forget to share the folder/drive).

If you want to continue trouble shooting your current setup...
Make sure both PCs have the same login credentials.
Make sure that both PCs think the network is a private connection. (one of them might think it is public and not be broadcasting)
You already found the Homegroup properties so make sure that both PCs are set up the same. (one PC requires password to share/one does not)

Also, start with using the already shared public folders. Once you get them working (always the easiest) then you can start trying to share the non public folders or drives (you will the the x800... error until you get it right).

Sorry I could provide more specific step by steps as I am at work rather than home.

[rezn0r]

do you happen to have IPv6 enabled on one system and not on the other (even if you aren't using it)?

i agree with the guys above, i'd forget about Homegroups and just use regular workgroup sharing, but if you want to keep at it i'll try to help.