Home Group ...Windows 7

It makes everything so much simpler.

From what I have read, the homegroup was really designed for computers all running Windows Seven. I did set a homegroup up. If I was doing it over (and I may do that), I would use workgroup since I am connecting a Windows Seven and an XP computer.

My situation is my OLD Gateway desktop.. is XP..
my NewLlaptop is Windows 7...connected by the router..( the laptop is Wi-Fi )
ok now that I know to do the WORKGroup ??

What action should I do first.. SET the group up... then secure it ...with the router password protected ?
If not please advise.
Thank you all ..who have replied and made comments.

Since you are connected via router, you already have a workgroup by default. I have not yet delved into setting this up manually. Click Start > Help and Support and do a search for workgroup. As you read the various topics there, remember that the homegroup is really designed for computers running Windows Seven.

Carl hi.. I'm thinking the work group is what I would need..since I'm using XP and Windows 7..
with the router.. I recall seeing the groups.. seems there were 3 choices..
Thank you for your reply.
:)

Rah Rah Rah - Homegroup........................... NOT
1) Not compatible with earlier OS
2) Not suggested for work places due to its lack of security
3) Not easier to set up than simple file sharing under XP, assuming you are proficient at both. The Win 7 setup takes longer (at least for my IT friends).
4) Not easily reversed. If you set up a Homegroup getting it out is difficult. As in your friend visits with his XP machine and you want to share files.

Homegroup is a pretty little piece of fluff to point to that Win 7 is better.

When Homegroup fails is when the "experts" suggest Sneakernet with a UDB drive?

I currently have this Win7 64 bit and Wifey's Win7 32 bit on a Homegroup but have been trying to break it because son and daughter are on XP and will not change soon. So far Wifey has been able to share but I have not.

If you are recommending Homegroup without actually doing an XP share then back to homegroup yourself I suggest you take a long look at what advice you are giving.

Duke, I concur. Read what I posted closely. I was NOT recommending homegroup. I set mine that way - not knowing any better - and struggled to get the XP computer on board. I do have it set up and running fine; but I don't recommend homegroup.

Oh my I'm more confused than ever...is it necessary to have a group at all ?..

I'm the only one who will be using this.. as things are now.

By the way since I first started this router.. ( before I re-set it to default).. a home group was formed.. if I recall correctly..now my printer ..(Lexmark) refuses to print... only the very top part or the title to an item.