Windows XP and NetBEUI

Windows XP uses TCP/IP by default for networking.  But when the default firewall is installed,  networking between computers in the local area network becomes a problem.  For protection you really want a non-routable (not able to be seen on the Internet) protocol for networking your local computers.

NetBEUI (NBF) is a non-routable protocol suitable for small networks.  Support for this protocol in Microsoft Windows has been discontinued with Windows XP.  (Urge to kill.)

To install it anyway:

From the Windows XP CD,

1. browse to the Valueadd\MSFT\Net\NetBEUI folder.
2. copy nbf.sys into the %SYSTEMROOT%\SYSTEM32\DRIVERS\ directory
3. copy netnbf.inf into the %SYSTEMROOT%\INF\ hidden directory
• To make a hidden folder viewable, perform the following steps:
• Click Start, click Run, type Explorer, and then press ENTER.
• Click Tools, click Folder Options, and then click the View tab.
• Under Advanced Settings, click Show hidden files and folders under the Hidden files and folders Folder

4. Click Start, click Control Panel, and then double-click Network Connections

5. Right-click the adapter you want to add NetBEUI to, and then click Properties.

6. On the General tab, click Install.

7. Click Protocol, and then click Add.

8. Click to select NetBEU Protocol from the list and then click OK.

9. If you receive a prompt to restart your computer, so to complete the installation.