Computer Browser issues w/ XP

1. This isn't a hardware issue,
2. I never had a problem w/ 2k,
3. I don't leave my boxes on 24/7 (wasn't a problem before),
4. I use the same username and workgroup in all three boxes,
5. I have enabled simple file sharing on all drives (partitions),
6. NO firewall,
7. All have static IP addresses,
8. I can ping each PC.

After reading about the "Computer Browser" service it appears this is my problem. My question is;
What has changed in FP, er XP that is making this a problem that 2k didn't have?

If I try to "View Workgroup Computers", it times out after 45 seconds with the message "The list of servers is not available" which apparently means there is a problem with this Master Browser.

It was suggested to use the 'lmhosts' file. I read through this;
http://www.microsoft.com/resources/...server/reskit/en-us/net/sur_lmh.mspx?mfr=true
and created this file;

I also added 'NetBios" to the list of protocols under 'Local Area Connection Properties'. Under the "Advanced TCP/IP Settings/Wins" I added the three addresses of the three PCs'. IPCONFIG looks like this:

Anyway it didn't work (which I didn't expect).
What's wrong or is there a better/easier way?

 

Browser election problem?

Turn off the computer browser for all but one machine and see how you fare.

 

It was set to automatic, but it wasn't started on either of the two that have been on (third is a laptop). I have noticed that before, that CB doesn't start though I can start it manually. And no, there are no viruses.