Cannot connect to Windows 2003 server

[Ken H]

I enter use the connect to server dropdown menu at Go in Finder. I type in smb://server name or ip address of server/shared name. I get the following message: "Could not connect to the server because the name or password is not correct" (Untrue--it is correct).

I am able to connect to the internet wirelessly which runs through my windows server.

I am a novice. Mac tells me there is nothing more they can do for me, and my IT guy knows nothing about Macs. I am ready to throw the machine through the window.

Any suggestions?

[Satcomer]

Well for one thing goto your boss. Your IT guy is no IT tech if he can only do one kind of computer! I guess from you post you want to JOIN a Windows 2003 workgroup or domain, am I correct? I also assumed you first went into /Applications/Utilities/Directory Access and turn on the capability. I also have been watching MacWindows.com and have seen a typical 2003 fix as described in the website MacOSXHints.

[Ken H]

you are correct--I want to join a Windows 2003 workgroup. I did not have directory access clicked on, but upon your advice I did so--still no success. I had disabled the encryption as recommended in the MacOSXHints previously.

[nixgeek]

Actually, it seems like you're trying to access a share on that server, not necessarily joining the domain. If you're accessing a share on the server, you need to provide the username and password that's resident on that server (since the share is resident on that server also), not the one that's on your Mac.

As for joining it to the domain, you need to do what Satcomer recommended and open Directory Access. Then under SMB, you can provide the workgroup/domain name. If you're wanting to join under Active Directory, then configure the Active Directory option in Directory Access (you'll most likely need the administrative access from your "IT guy"...personally, if he doesn't know anything other than Windows then he's hardly an IT guy ). The Active Directory option is available in 10.3 and above.

And if you really don't want it, then don't throw it out a window....give it to someone who will take care of that Mac.....like ME!

[Ken H]

Nixgeek, you're right. I'm attempting to access my server through a share. So, I go: Finder, go, connect to server, smb://server name or ip address/share name and I come up with "The Finder cannot complete the operation because some data in "smb:/server/shared" could not be read or written" (Error code-36)

I should mention, that this is when I try to attach wirelessly (through a router hooked up to my home windows computer). I have the same problem at work when I go through the router on that computer.

So, what do I do now?

[nixgeek]

Try excluding the share name. If it goes through, it will give you the option to select the share you want (unless you're accessing an administrative share, in which case you have to add the "$" symbol after the share name).

As for the wireless issue, are you associated and authenticated with the proper encryption keys and whatnot?