You can try making static ips as well.. though i dunno if this problem is due to the networking or permissions, leaning toward permissions or some missing/minconfigged protocol..
Could always make a small 5gb or so partition and dual boot 98SE, or even give 98SE a go before going to 2k, its actually better than ME ya know :lol2:
Try enabling netbios over tcp ip, might work, its in one of the advanced properties of tcp/ip. I've had alot of troubles with ME and 2k/XP systems as well, its a horrible OS all round :D