Milt- you've managed to work Windows Defender into the subject header, but I
don't really see its relevance to the content of your message.
What version of windows are these machines running? Typically, on question
1, you right click the Ethernet connection in control panel, networks,choose
properties, click on the advanced tab, then the settings tab for the
firewall. Click the exceptions tab. There should be a checkbox for file
and printer sharing. Check that, and ok or apply to get out . Do that on
each machine.
Be aware that if you are running a security suite from any of the major and
not-so-major vendors, they may also include firewall functionality--and I
can't tell you how to work with those products.
I don't understand your second question at all, I'm afraid--can you say a
bit more--give an example?
--
Bill, thanks for your time - the reason Windows Defender was included in the heading is that I think the download included changes to the Windows Firewall which resulted in some error messages. However, I think now all is well. My Linksys wireless router has a firewall in it, sooooo, I disabled both the Trend Micro and Windows firewalls and presto, my little network is cookin' again. The rep from Trend Micro was very helpful, and told me I only needed one firewall.