networking pcs

OK.. I'm sure this has been asked a thousand times, but I looked a bit and couldn't find it posted.

I have an older gateway desktop running windows xp home edition..

I have a laptop that runs XP pro, and I'm getting ready to buy another desktop that will probably be windows media center..

I already have a wireless network for the internet. But, I want to be able to see the hard drive of my desktop from my laptop in windows explorer, and vice versa.. I'm confused about how to do this. I guess I need to know the IP address of the computer I want to see.

TIA... :?

Hi Tom,

It is DSL.. My desktop is connected witha cable, and my laptop is wireless.

No, I haven't run the home network setup.. Maybe I should try this?

Thanks..

joan

Thanks.. that was so easy!! Now, one last question. I want to share all folders on both PCs. I assume this is something I do under administrative tools, but I don't see where..

thanks... OK.. when you say.. only set certain folders.. is this because when I have my pcs networked, to each other, it opens a security threat from outside sources.. (i know you are probably lol right now)..

because I am the only person that is ever on the PCs here, and my work is not confidential, but of course, i don't want predators seeing it..

ok.. one last question.. what security settings do you recommend in terms of firewall, etc?

I have norton live update on, and windows firewall

however, I have internet security turned off. It drives me crazy constantly asking me to grant acess to stuff..

tia

Yes.. I have only antivirus and no problems yet either..

Thanks for all your help!!!