Mac Netbios name resolution problems

Question

Mac Netbios name resolution problems

Hey all, I run a windows active directory domain at work with Sonicwall VPN for users working from home. We support Macs (sort of) by providing vpn client software for them to use.

For windows users, their workstations at work are DHCP enabled, and when connecting from home they just specify the netbios name of the pc at work (in remote desktop client).

Mac users can't do this, netbios does not work for them and in the CoRD client, they have to specify IP address to remotely connect to their office PC. For this reason, their office PC has to be static IP address. Is there anyway for remote mac users to have netbios name resolution enabled or functioning? Thanks!

Message was edited by: fecalposition

Dell Optiplex 745, Windows XP Pro

Posted on Aug 18, 2009 11:31 AM

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Answer 1

Aug 18, 2009 2:51 PM in response to fecalposition

I am running a Windows SBS 2003 Domain and have a Mac connected. What you will need to do is enable WINS on your DC. As I have not been very successful with NETBIOS resolution with out it. You should be able to move the Macs back to DHCP though you will need to manually add the WINS server. I would also suggest that you try this with one system (assuming that you are authenticating to AD with the Macs) as moving from a static IP to DHCP on a Mac sometimes causes problems.

Hope this helps –

BH

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