Homegroup headaches; random issues; one fix

[eyc]

This weekend, I configured three Win7 computers on my parents network: a Desktop PC (64 bit; hardline to wireless router), an HTPC (64 bit; wireless), and a Laptop (32 bit; wireless). At first, I encountered a lot of Homegroup headaches. I created a Homegroup on the Desktop, but both HTPC and Laptop would not join. After a lot of troubleshooting, I hardlined both the Laptop and the HTPC to the wireless router -- and both instantly connected to the Homegroup.​

I then disconnected the HTPC and Laptop, re-instated their wireless connections, shared all default folders (i.e., music, pictures, documents, etc.) on each of the three computers, and began some random testing. I immediately noticed various strange issues/bugs/glitches. ​

1) With all three computers on, I could not change the name of a folder in the HTPC's picture folder. I confirmed that I was not trying to manipulate the Desktop's or Laptop's picture folders. I was simply using the HTPC to try to change the name of a shared folder on its own hard drive. The error message said something to the effect of: You cannot change the name of this folder as it is currently in use.​

2) With the Desktop computer OFF (as noted, I created the Homegroup on this computer), I was unable to share files between the HTPC and the Laptop, even though each recognized the other on the Homegroup. As soon as I turned on the Desktop, all computers could share files. Surely the Homegroup-creating computer need not be on for files to be shared, right?​

3) While using the Laptop, I entered the HTPC's video folder and opened a video; it played just fine. But, when I tried opening a different video (same file type), I received a message that the video file was currently in use elsewhere and could not open. This was a similar problem as #1, above.​

4) Printer issues. The printer is connected to the Desktop computer. The HTPC sees the printer just fine, but the Laptop does not see it. When I open devices and printers on the Laptop, I get nothing but the default devices.​

I wish I knew the exact language of the errors, but I am no longer at my parent's home (different state); various outstanding network issues remain unresolved. Has anyone else faced these seemingly random issues using Homegroups? Is there some troubleshooting technique I should employ? Did I set up the Homegroup incorrectly?​

 

[wallyinnc]

eyc, do you have a virus program or firewall on? To be honest I am also still discovering the Homegroups and strugling with things, but I found that disbling the firewall will allow some things to be setup (the printer thing is likely that)
Let me know your progress since I also need some help with homegroups

 

[eyc]

wallyinnc, I have Avira set up on each of the computers. I have not turned off the firewalls (I will give that a shot). Also, I read elsewhere that it might help to turn of IPv6. I'll give that a shot too (remotely, of course, as I am 420 miles away from those computers now).

 

[wallyinnc]

I thought it would be a long shot anyway
Let us know how it goes!

 

[SquonkSC]

wallyinnc, I have Avira set up on each of the computers. I have not turned off the firewalls (I will give that a shot). Also, I read elsewhere that it might help to turn of IPv6. I'll give that a shot too (remotely, of course, as I am 420 miles away from those computers now).

Turning off IPv6 will render home grouping useless.

You could try setting up a network the classic way, without homegroup.
I that case disabling IPv6 doesn't have any adverse effects.

Experimented with homegroup for two weeks. Found it utterly useless.

I'm back to classic network setup and everything works how it is supposed to.

good luck