Networking Windows XP to Mac OS 8.1

Since people were wondering what program to use to connect XP to older Mac OS's this is my experience on what I used.

Since Windows XP no longer supports the AppleTalk Protocol. I found that the best program to use was PC MacLAN. I first connected both computers via Cat5 cable to a switch. I downloaded the trial version, which you can use for up to 180 minutes. After I installed it and went through the configuration wizard, I used Miramar AppleTalk Network and it recognized the Mac right away. Double clicked on computer icon, prompted for a user name and password and that was it. It makes it very simple as long as you have enabled on your Mac file sharing, TCP/IP, and AppleTalk.