Using DNLA on Windows 7 without Homegroup

Hi all

Scenario:

I've got a PC running Windows 7 Professional 64 acting as a repository for all my video media. Currently this is connected to a Homegroup and runs a DLNA and also allows media streaming online using a Windows Live ID linked to the account (set up via Windows Media Player). This all works well.

However, I want to stop using Homegroup as it keeps messing up the permissions on other shares I have set up (I use the computer for lots of other server applications).

All the guides I've read to set up DLNA (and internet streaming) talk you through setting up a Homegroup to get it working. So my questions are:

- Do I have to use Homegroup to run DLNA?
- Is the DLNA built into Homegroup, Windows Media Player or another service running on the PC?

Thanks very much in advance.

Nick

I think there is a way to run DLNA via WMP, but I'm not 100% sure on that. I run it through software that came with my device. Currently, I am using Samsung AllShare and it works like a charm. You seem to be using it a little differently from myself so it's hard to give a clear-cut answer. I know there are some decent 3rd part programs that will do all of this though. You add media, allow devices to connect and your computer acts as a media server to the connected devices, wired or wireless.

Thanks very much for the reply. I'm keen to stick with the stock windows DLNA as it seems to work well and includes online streaming.

My question is specifically whether I need to have my server a member of a Homegroup for it to work. In other words, whether the DLNA "server" is part of Homegroup or another application/service running in Windows.

Thanks

Nick

That, I'm not sure of. I know with 3rd party software, such as Nero MediaHome 4 and Samsung AllShare, you do not have to be part of a homegroup.