Computer Networking help (pretty basic)

[Gypsy]

Hiya all.

Just got a new laptop and it is not recognizing my other (networked) computers. I have one main desktop, a printer, and a (very old) laptop linked.

I had first bought a different laptop, a gaming laptop, that had no issue connecting to my other computer's. Three clicks and it was networked and all was well.

But we returned that laptop a couple of days ago (it wasn't right for us) and got this one which is better suited for us. According to the Geek Squad, the original laptop (Asus) comes with embedded software that makes connecting to networks a breeze (because it needs to to facilitate gaming). This one (Samsung) isn't a gaming computer so it doesn't have that ability.

I still would think it would sense the network, but not so. All computers on the network are several years old and run Windows XP or lower.

I was hoping to find some free software that I could download to make this computer (Samsung) recognize the network, so I can add it into the network and file share and use my printer.

This is the only one I found that seems to be what I need ( http://www.purenetworks.com/product/ess ... atures.php) , but the Geek Squad was pretty sure I would be able to find something free.

Does anyone know of a free software tool I can use to fix this issue?

THANK YOU!

 

[CharmyPoo]

Are you on a wireless or wirred network?

All the computers in my house (except for my server and backup server) is wireless.

 

[Gypsy]

WIreless.

The Samsung is able to connect to the net on my internet network. Just not able to network to the other computers at all. Doesn't even pick them up... when I do a search for devices in the area, it only picks itself up.

 

[CharmyPoo]

Which OS are you running?

Nothing in Window Explorer > Network?

Positive - you are connected to your home internet network and not some neighbours?

Sorry for the super basic questions .. just trying to see what is going on.

Usually .. it isn't a software thing.

 

[Gypsy]

Charmy, thanks for all the help. Hubby tried something and figured it out. The older computers were running at a different speed (or something) and he got them to 'talk' to one another. They are working now. Just need to get it to recognize the printer now and we're all set.

I LOVE my new laptop. I really do.

ETA: Got the printer set up too! YAY. All systems a go! Now just need to set up my ebook libraries and my itunes. SO excited.

 

[CharmyPoo]

Woo hoo! It's frustrating when the computers don't function but once they did .. yeah! I honestly can't live without my laptop and blackberry.

 

[Gypsy]

I haven't succumbed to the lure of a smart phone yet. But I wouldn't be surprised if I did within the next year or two. But having a functioning laptop (and one that is lightweight, mobile, and has a good battery life) is a must.
The Asus was just a huge beast of a computer. 11 pound laptop with an hour and half of battery life. Granted it was fast as heck and the graphics kicked serious tail, but for what our immediate needs were it was just the wrong machine. Loving this one though. Ebook libraries are now installed and I'm transferring all my music files onto here.

Then I just need to get all my documents off our other (ancient) lap top and I'm set. Got my thumb drive ready for that.

Thanks again for the help!