[windows][networking] LAN gaming with older versions of Windows

[LukeShortCloud]

The trick is, on Vista/7/8 machines; disable HomeGroup on those PCs; this resorts back to "Simple Networking" methods. And XP supports IPv6 with all the later updates it had after SP2.

To do this easily with Vista/7/8 machines u don't want to go changing settings all around, simply to go Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center. There u should see "basic network info"; under active Networks, change Home to Work. Use of Work as a place will turn off HomeGroup until switched back to Home location.

With HomeGroup of any kind disabled now, reboot. WinXP and Vista/7/8 machines systems should all be able to see each other fine via Windows Explorer > Network

If that alone doesn't do it, check the Network Sharing options on all systems.
For example, Vista/7/8 machines support 128-bit file sharing; u may need to drop this down to the lower 56 bit setting in Network Sharing Settings in order to work and allow XP system to see Vista/7/8 machines. 

https://steamcommunity.com/discussions/forum/11/494632768630527007/?l=french