How do I add a printer on a network - the other PCs are running XP (or Windows 2000) too

First you need to make sure your PC without the printer can actually communicate with the PC that has the printer attached!  If the one without the printer cannot even 'see' the one with the printer, you have a basic networking configuration problem which I'm definitely NOT covering on this website.  Have a look at Steve Winograd's excellent pages at Practically Networked

Once you've got that sorted out, then here's the solution:

Go to the PC which has the printer attached.  From the Control Panel, under Printers & Faxes, right click on the Printer you want to share and select Properties. 

In the Sharing tab, ensure you check the box to enable the printer to be shared.  The Shared Name of the Printer should no no more than 12 characters or numbers... with NO SPACES in it. 

Click on OK.

Go back to the PC without the printer.  Again, go to Printers & Faxes in the Control Panel.  Use the Add Printer Wizard and select the Add Network Printer option.  You should now be able to browse to the other PC and actually 'see' the printer listed there.  Click on it.

Because XP can use the drivers on the other PC it will 'pull' them over and install the printer as a network printer without your having to do anything else.

 

 

Thank you for visiting, and I hope I've solved your problem.  A few tips when buying a new printer...

ALWAYS set a limit for your budget and remind yourself what you will be using the printer for.  If you're going to be printing a lot of plain documents, then a laser printer is always the way to go.  It may seem more expensive to start off, but those toner cartridges last and last.  If you're going to be printing photos, then I strongly suggest you consider an inkjet printer which has separate cartridges for each color.  It's much more economical when it comes to replacing the ink.

I hope you enjoyed your stay, please come back again