Why is Windows Vista unable to see other computers or other computers are unable to see Windows Vista?

By default, any network you connect to your computer is considered a Public (insecure) network. This causes Windows Vista to use stricter settings which may prevent discovery and file sharing.

To allow your Windows Vista computer to access other computers on your network and vice versa, follow these steps:

  1. Click Start
  2. Click Control Panel
  3. Click Network and Internet
  4. Click Network and Sharing Center
  5. Look under the Network heading
  6. Click the Customize link to the right of the network heading
  7. If this is not set to Private, click Private, click Next, and then Close.
  8. Look under the Sharing and Discovery heading
  9. Make sure Network Sharing and File Sharing is turned on. If they aren't, click the down arrow next to them and click the option that turns them on.