The 3Com 3C980C-TXM Network Adapter May Not Correctly Bind the Components (294651)

SYMPTOMS

On a server that has a single 3Com 3C980C-TXM network adapter, when you attempt to rebind the File and Printer Sharing for Microsoft Networks and the Client for Microsoft Networks components, you may receive an error message that states that the components require additional configuration. Regardless of whatever configuration changes you make, the two components are not bound to the networking stack.

CAUSE

This behavior can occur because the 3Com EtherLink Server 10/100 PCI (3C980C-TXM) network adapter is designed to enable virtual local area networks (VLANs) and to support load balancing between multiple 3C980C adapters. The 3Com Setup utility for the EtherLink Server 10/100 PCI (3C980C-TXM) network adapter installs the Dynamic Access Protocol.

The Dynamic Access Protocol facilitates the operation of the VLANs and adapter pooling. On a Windows 2000-based computer that has only a single adapter, the Dynamic Access Protocol is unable to bind to a partner adapter, which prevents the File and Printer Sharing and the Client for Microsoft Networks components from correctly binding to the network stack.

WORKAROUND

To work around this behavior, remove the Dynamic Access Protocol. Then, the File and Printer Sharing and the Client for Microsoft Networks components are properly bound to the network stack.

MORE INFORMATION

This behavior only occurs if a single 3C980C-TXM network adapter is installed on the server. If the adapter is installed in pairs (as 3Com has designed it to be used), the components function correctly.