Question : Simple LAN query

I have established a LAN between my 2 Windows XP PCs - or at least I have as far as I can know - using a crossover cable and LAN cards in each PC ------
but how to get each PC to access the other PC, and how to send files between PCs I just can't find out.

dan

Answer : Simple LAN query

well you want to give both compuers an IP

give the one (with internet connection if you have it)

IP:192.168.2.1
SubnetMask:255.255.255.0

and the other:
IP:192.168.2.2
SubnetMask:255.255.255.0

(the subnet mask should be the same)

then you should be able to ping each computer from the other - open a command prompt and type

ping 192.168.2.2  from the 192.168.2.1 machine, and vice versa.. assuming you get a response something like

reply from ....

then you have a network between them, now to share files the easiest thing to do is share a folder on one of the machines: right click, properties, sharing and share the folder.  Now if your 192.168.2.1 computer shares a folder, in order for the 192.168.2.2 computer to access it, the username/password must exist on the 192.168.2.1 computer the same as you have setup on the 192.168.2.2 computer.

IN otherwords, the username/password must be on each computer for it to work the easiest, or just use the same username/password on both and you are ok.