How to Configure Workgroups

Microsoft workgroups are a way for small home networks to share files across a network. They aren't feasible for large operations, but for a home network with only a few computers, workgroups are a great way to share files, map network drives without much security and browse computers on the network. Configuring workgroups for Windows XP takes only a few steps to ensure all computers have the same workgroup name.

Instructions

1. Click the Windows "Start" button and select "Control Panel." Double-click the "System" icon. This opens a configuration for workgroup settings.

2. Click the "Computer Name" tab. Click the "Change" button to edit the workgroup and computer name settings.

3. Enter the computer name in the text box labeled "Computer Name." This is the name of the computer that users will enter to access your network share files and folders. It's also the name that's displayed when browsing network resources.

4. Enter the workgroup name. This name is used for all computers, so it should reflect the group of computers. Click the "Ok" button to save the settings.

5. Restart the computer for the changes to take effect. Repeat these steps with other computers on the network. The workgroup name is the same for all computers, but the computer name is unique across the network.

References

• Configuring workgroup settings