Unable to see home network computers in Windows Explorer Network scree

[Latitude55]

Unable to see home network computers in Windows Explorer Network screen.

I have a home network with 2 laptops and 1 desktop. The desktop I use as a "file server" in that all work done on the laptops is stored to the desktop. The desktop computer name is HAL. One laptop is fine and sees the network. The other just stopped seeing it; rebooted the laptop; rebooted HAL; did a number of refreshes without any luck. I opened EXCEL and found a worksheet that was listed that I knew was saved on HAL. Was able to open the file and when I tried the SAVE AS I could navigate through all of HAL just as normal. Went to Windows Explorer and still no HAL listed as a COMPUTER on the NETWORK. I have a internet connection so I know I am making it to the router at least. And when I check NETWORK AND SHARING CENTER it shows an active home network. The laptop is running Windows 7 Home Premium Service Pack 1 Build 7601. Thanks in advance for any help! George

 

[Latitude55]

Still working on the problem. Tried to do a system restore back to the point where everything was working. Still no HAL showing as a network computer; Excel now does not recognize the path that worked yesterday. But now I am able to create a shortcut that will take me to HAL on the network. Guess this is a good enough fix for right now. When I go to Windows Explorer, Network it still only shows the 2 laptops and not HAL......WHY????

 

[2xg]

Hello,

From this Article under "Network discovery is turned off" please have a read. The rest of the Article is also helpful.

Creating a map network drive shortcut on your desktop would work just fine. I'd rather have a quick access to the shared network drive, it's quicker to get to the files.

 

[Latitude55]

Short cut path works just fine but when I need to access the network from a publishing software package I can not access the network path..............just can't seem to find a fix yet

The Network Discovery was turned on and the other suggestions within the article did not help.

 

[2xg]

Do you know if this publishing software requires mapping a network drive? Some software do not support mapping a network drive or it may work with proper setup.

when I need to access the network from a publishing software package I can not access the network path