I have developed a suite of filemaker databases which I now need to share to users over TCP/IP.

All files have been set to multi-user, FMPro 6 has been set to use TCP/IP and the host has an ADSL connnection on a Windows XP machine.

On starting the testing, I just cannot access the files from another PC! I have the laptop connected to the internet on a dial-up connection. On opening FMPro (also TCP/IP enabled) I go to specify host, type in the IP address of the host - then nothing! A user also tried entering the IP over his cable ADSL connected PC running Win98 with the same result.

As far as I know, this should work - but how?

Web companion just won't work for this solution, too many calculations etc. However, when I tested a simple file using web companion, that worked.

Also tried with and without the personal firewall option on the internet connection settings.

Any ideas?

Do other services work, e.g. Personal Web-sharing?

It may be a port routing problem with your Modem/Router! You need to have port 5003 open.

Good Luck.

Garry

Thanks for the tip. Excuse my ignorance on these matters but I've only just got round to using XP after 18 happy years on Macs. Where exactly do I find Port 5003 and how do I check if it is open? The modem is an Alcatel Speedtouch USB.

I have managed to ping the ADSL connected PC's IP address from a remote PC on a dial-up connection

If you were using a Mac I could help you. However, even after having setup a couple of XP computers, I have repressed memory of such horrid affairs.

It may have a built-in Firewall or IP filter. The firewall may be blocking certain ports!

Good Luck.

Garry

Yes, sorely tempted to rip the iMac out of the office and bring it home to use as the server!

RE: However, when I tested a simple file using web companion, that worked.

That show, that port for WC -- 80 or 591 -- is not blocked, but 5003 IS BLOCKED.

It may be somewhere on the way or in your local machine.

HTH

On the XP box check to see if the "Internet Connection Firewall" is enabled - right-click "my network places" on the desktop - choose properties - right click "local area connections" and choose properties - then click the advanced tab and see if it is enabled.

Will