Something isn't working - but what?

[Debugga]

Hello everyone.

I am trying to network two computers, I will call them A & B. Here are the specs:

Computer A:
1.2Ghz AMD Athlon
512mb RAM
Winbond Generic Ethernet Adapter
56K modem
Windows XP Pro sp2

Computer B:
2.8Ghz Pentium 4
512mb RAM
Winbond Generic Ethernet adapter
Windows XP Pro sp2

Computer A is the family computer and Computer B is more of a gaming computer.

The problem is Computer B reports no packets sent or recieved in the network status box, whereas computer B sends packets periodically.

Computer A has the Internet connection but I'm not really bothered about sharing it. I know for a fact computer A is configured properly because I had it networked to another computer before. Here are the TCP/IP settings:

Computer A:
IP 192.168.0.1
Subnet 255.255.255.0
Workgroup: Home

Computer B:
IP 192.168.0.2
Subnet: 255.255.255.0
Gateway 192.168.0.1
Workgroup: Home

I know that both NICs are fine and its nothing stupid like the cables not being plugged in (they are fine too). Firewalls are disabled on the LAN connection. Both computers can ping themselves but not each other. When I try this I get a 'Request timed out' message.

I think i've remembered to say everything. Please ask if more info is required.

Any help would be greatly appreciated because this problem is starting to do my head in. :)

[Greenstead]

It does sound as tho there is no physical connection. It is that or a firewall problem (unlikely).
I would suggest trying a new cross-over cable.

[Debugga]

Sorry, i forgot to mention i am using a linksys 5 port hub and i have swapped the cables and connections round into all manner of arrangements.

[Greenstead]

OK - thinking again.

The PCs can ping themselves. But neither can ping the other.
No connectivity. Same conclusion.

Where do the PC IPs come from.
You entered them manually?

[Debugga]

Yes, i set the IPs up manually.

[Greenstead]

The disadvantage with manually setting the IPs is that it conceals the problem of no connectivity. If you have ICS enabled on the 'Host' PC and the 'client' PC set to auto then it should give the IP and gateway addresses to the 'client' PC. That proves connectivity.

Presumably this does not work, but you should stick with it till it does.

You should also have the Network connection properties on bith PCs for the NICs (General Tab) set to 'Show icon in notification area when connected'. If there is no physical connectivity you will get an error message 'a network cable is unplugged'. Which is telling you it is a cable problem.