[nitelite]

Hi i have a computer that is connected to my router that is running Windows XP. I enabled File and Printer sharing on that computer and connected my new Vista desktop to the same Workstation as the other computer. For some reason when i click Add A Printer on my Vista desktop and search for network printers, it doesn't show up. Anyone know how i can fix this? Thanks in advance

[TerryNet]

I'm going to assume that you meant that you have two PCs, one with XP and the other Vista, both connected to the same router and able to access the internet through that router. Also you have a printer either connected to the router or to the XP PC. File and Printer sharing is enabled on the XP.

If those assumptions are correct then as a start you want to make sure the network is designated 'Private' on the Vista, and you may have to configure any 3rd party firewall.

If the printer is connected to the XP you will need to share it (and add the Vista driver if possible) and configure any 3rd party firewall for the desired access.

[nitelite]

how do i make sure that the network is designed private? and also how do i get a Vista driver for a lexmark printer?

[pedroguy]

If by private,you mean prohibiting an outside user access to your local net,probably enabling encryption(wpa is preferred if your attached devices support it).This is generally done through your routers admin/wireless security page.

Regarding a Vista driver for your printer,have you tried the Lexmart www sight , search for your printer model,and then see if there is a Vista driver for it.

[nitelite]

yea, i just found the driver but it cannot find my printer and so it won't install.

[TerryNet]

Look in the Network and Sharing Center to see/change the network's designation.

If the printer can be connected by USB, connect it to the Vista and install. That way the driver will be available for the connection you really want. If it's a network printer there should be installation instructions on the Lexmark site.

[nitelite]

ok i installed the driver, now the only problem is getting the printer to show up when i search for it