I had a working network with two computers with xp and a printer. I am adding a new one with 7 and the pcs cannot open files on the 7 which requests passwords. I have not set up any password for the newtwork, but all sharing has been allowed. The 7 does not even see the printer (do I have to install the drivers first? there used to be a menu before form which to select your printer...) Networks have always been my hell! please help

First of all, make sure you have assigned the Network as a Home/Work Network on the Windows 7 PC on the Network & Sharing Center. Then, goto "Advanced Sharing Settings" in the Network & Sharing Center. Check if the "Network discovery" and "File and printer sharing" options are both ON. They should be ON for you to be able to share resources. Hope that helps!Kunal D Mehta - a Windows Server Enthusiast.

The reason that you are getting a password prompt is due to win 7 password protection sharing is enable by default. Have it turn off by going to network sharing center>advanced sharing setting and browse till you see password protection sharing option and next tick on turn off password protection sharing. As for printer, some of the model, win 7 would be able to detect and assign driver, whereas some don't and you have to run setup using the printer drivers CD or download the drivers from the manufacturer website