Windows 7: Files on network computers visible ONLY if accessed via IP address

I have 5 Windows 7 computers connected to the same homegroup/workgroup via a Cisco Linksys E1200. All four computers are HPs of various makes, 3 laptops (one of them is a $600 brick) and 2 desktops. Any computer that is awake and online, shows up (with its name) in Network on the other machines. However, double-clicking to view files on these computers returns the following message:

Details: Error code: 0x80070035 - The network path was not found.

Diagnose, as expected, did nothing. However, here's the fun bit - when I try to access files on other computers by browsing their IP address, everything works perfectly. For now, anyway. I'm expecting a sudden degradation any day now.

Is there something I can change either on my systems or on the router itself that will enable me to view files on the other computers by name?

Hi pikalax,

From the computer that you're trying to access using it's computer name rather than it's IP Address, try the following:

Turn off Password Protected Sharing.
Disable Password Protected Sharing — MAXIMUMpcguides – Windows 7 tips, tricks, help, and how-to guides

Click on the Start Orb and type secpol.msc press enter then navigate to: > Local Policies > Security Options, locate 'Network Access: Sharing and Security Model for Local Accounts, then choose Guest only and not Classic.

Now, try it again if you can accessing again by typing in the Computer Name from another Computer of course.

Alternatively, it's also easier to map a network drive and create a shortcut on the computer's Desktop. You may do this by using either the Computer Name or IP Address.

Hi again, I have Home Premium on all machines. secpol.msc does not exist on Home Premium.

EDIT: Also, password-protected sharing is off by default, but I don't think Windows 7 takes that into consideration because it still prompts for a username and password when I attempt to connect.

oops...Local Sec. Policy is only available to above Win 7 Home Premium versions. I should have asked first.

Please check your built-in Firewall setting. Is File and Printer Sharing excluded? Are you using any Security software?

Did you create identical users and passwords on both computers?

Also, you try my last recommendation, will that work for you - creating a map network drive?

I have Microsoft Security Essentials on at least two of the computers. The others, not so sure (I only use two of the five myself). I have enabled all FPS rules on one of the machines (Firewall, by default, blocks all connections that do not follow a rule). This seems to have done the trick.

All sorted now?

Yes. I just need to make sure the ports are open on all computers on the network. Thank you for your firewall advice.

You're Welcome pikalax.