peer to peer network, XP Home doesn't allow 5 connections

I have a XP home machine working for a file/print server. Yet it doesn't allow the full 5 connections. Sometimes it is up too 5 but most of the time it only allows 3 connections. I then go to the "server" and kill all the connections and it allows the pc that wasn't able to connect, able to connect. The owner isn't in a position to upgrade to windows pro yet (probably beginning of NEXT month) and this happens 2-5 times a day. any thoughts?

This is a problem encountered even with "proper" Microsoft server software. Individual client machine connections to a server can frequently use up more than one connection. This usually occurs at logon and logoff. I've complained to Microsoft about it but no joy. Therefore your 5-user XP Home limit may not go very far. You may be best off putting together a Samba box as the XP Pro limit is only 10. This Microsoft KB gives the full lowdown.