Share FileMaker Pro files on Windows XP Service Pack 2 machines

In general, the Windows XP Service Pack 2 has little effect on the use of FileMaker Pro. One exception is when you attempt to share FileMaker Pro files. In these cases, example: Livestock Sales, you need to open port 5003 in the Firewall or turn off the Firewall completely (not really recommended).

 

FileMaker Pro uses port number 5003 with both the TCP and UDP protocols when communicating via TCP/IP. The UDP protocol is only used during initial contact with a host (e.g., to get the list of FileMaker Pro hosts for the Network Access dialog). All other FileMaker Pro TCP/IP communications use the TCP protocol. So you need to open both ports in the Windows Firewall.

 

These workarounds should be applied in order. When you are able to connect with the FileMaker file via the Hosts dialog box, you may stop.

 

Final Thought: If neither of these steps work, you may need UDP disabled for the 5003 port in your Office Router port forwarding setup. Contact Computer Support for help with this option.

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Option 1 - Open TCP Port 5003 and UDP 5003

1. Click Start, and then click Control Panel.
2. Double-click Windows Firewall (or click Security Center and then Windows Firewall).
3. In the Windows Firewall control panel, click the Exceptions tab.
4. Click Add Port.
5. In the Name field, type TCP Port 5003.
6. In the Port number field, type 5003.
7. The TCP radio button should already be selected.
8. Click OK to add the port. It should appear in the list of Programs and Services. It should be checked.
9. Click Add Port.
10. In the Name field, type UDP 5003.
11. In the Port number field, type 5003.
12. Click the UDP radio button.
13. Click OK to add the port. It should appear in the list of Programs and Services. It should be checked.
14. Click OK to close the Windows Firewall control panel.
15. Repeat steps 1 - 14 on all machines using the files (Host and Guests).
16. Attempt to connect to the FileMaker Pro files. If successful, you are finished.

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Option 2 - Turn off the Windows XP SP 2 Firewall

NOTE: If you are unable to connect with the above option, these steps will turn off the Windows Firewall. You will then be missing out on an important new addition to Windows XP. But, you should be able to then use the FileMaker Pro software as you did prior to the installation of SP 2.

1. Click Start, and then click Control Panel.
2. Double-click Windows Firewall (or click Security Center and then Windows Firewall).
3. Click the Off (not recommended) radio button.
4. Click OK to close the Windows Firewall control panel.
5. Attempt to connect to the FileMaker Pro files.

NOTE: If you are unable to connect with either of the above options, checked the Network #s of the user you are attempting to connect to. If you are in an office that using DHCP, they should NOT be using a Static IP address. Changed their computer to DHCP and test. (added 2-5-2005)

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