Windows 7: Network and Sharing Doesn't work properly

I have a Windows 7 laptop connected via a WRT54G2 wireless router to an XP SP3 desktop. Both the laptop and desktop can see shared resources and both can connected to the internet.



In the Laptop's Network and Sharing Center, however, things are not correct. The Laptop has two connections to the router, lan and wireless. The lan's connection appears OK, but I cannot generate a map. I get "Windows cannot discover any computer or device." The wireless network is public. I don't know why and I don't know how to change it. Also, when I try to create a new network connection, the laptop sees only a WRT160N router (which I don't have; perhaps I did a while ago, when the laptop ran Vista). No place to add a new one.

I have Cisco's Network Magic and it can correct see everything, including the right router.

RON

Additionally, the Windows 7's connection to the XP's shared resources disappear from time to time. Now, they are not there. I literally didn't do anything. (This is my second Linksys router.)

Welcome to Seven Forums!

First off, you shouldn't have both wireless and wired connection to the same router. Windows will get very confused. Since you a wired connection, I suggest you disable the wireless adapter when connected via ethernet.

Second, take another look at the sharing center, Especially the Advanced Sharing Settings. If you can, let me know what you have enabled.

Last, make sure the PC's are all on the same *workgroup*. Since you're in a mixed Windows 7/XP don't try and use Homegroups. They only work when all machines are Windows 7. You can disable IPV6 as well since it's really only needed for Homegroups and it can get in the way.

Thanks. I turned off the wireless connection. BUT, I still cannot generate a network map. Under advanced settings:
Home/Work profile
Network discover is on
File and printer sharing is ON
Public folder sharing is ON
File Sharing: Enable file sharing for devices that use 40- or 56-bit encryption is ON
Password protection is OFF
Both computers are on the same workgroup (not home group)

You may want to do a reboot. That way everything comes up clean.

did you try turning network magic off? Do you have a firewall like zone alarm on the xp?

I don't have Zone Alarm. As for rebooting, the system has been rebooted several times already; also, when it rebooted the wireless network connects automatically.

You need to *disable* the wireless adapter, not turn it off. Best way to do that is to go to Control Panel => Network and Internet => Network and Sharing Center. Then look for Change Adapter Settings on the left. Find the wireless adapter and right click. Choose disable.

sorry, I meant I disabled it.

And it still came back? That's not normal unless there's some application that's doing it. Do you have any wireless configuration software iin there? Something that either 3rd party or providing by the laptop manufacturer?