Windows 7: can windows 7 laptop see XP shared folders on Network

Hi,

I have a new HP8710W laptop that originally had Windows XP Professional installed from the factory. I just received my Windows 7 Professional 32 bit upgrade kit and have installed it on my computer

I also have a Desktop PC that is running Windows XP Professional.

Prior to installing Windows 7 on my laptop I was able to see the shared folders on HP8710W laptop while running the Windows XP Professional operating system. I would like to be able to access the shared files on my Desktop computer that is running Windows XP Professional with the HP8710W laptop that is running Windows 7 Professional 32 bit. I am a novice when it comes to networks and would appreciate any suggestions on what to do to get this to work.

I anticipate installing Windows 7 on my desktop in the near future but have not done the conversion as of this date.

I would appreciate some step by step instructions if they are available and not too much trouble to pass on to me.

I am running a TRENDNET TEW-432BRP wireless router H/W:vDl.OR

Thanks in advance for any help you can offer.

John

John Hi and welcome

Win 7 can use 2 different ways to network. Homegroup is the first. Primarily for all win 7 machines on it. Workgroup for mixed environments. If you are going to put win 7 on the other machine homegroup will work. If not workgroup would be preferred. In work group it is easier to configure and is more stabile.

Your call.
Let us know when yo are ready

Hope this helps

Ken J+

If you are going to put win 7 on the other machine, homegroup might work.

Hi Ken,

Could you help me set up work group?

Thanks,

John

I changed a few settings on My Windows 7 networking and sharing and I can now see the shared files on my Desktop XP machine.

Thanks for all the help.

John