What is a NetBIOS Node Type?

A NetBIOS node type is a method that a computer uses to resolve a NetBIOS name into an IP address. NetBIOS node type allows an administrator to configure the order and method that a client uses when resolving NetBIOS names to IP addresses.


Understanding how the various node type functions will help you to properly configure your WINS solution. Windows Server supports the following node types:

B-node (broadcast): it uses broadcasts for name resolution and registration. In a large network, a broadcast increases the load of the network. In addition, usually routers stop all broadcasts to forward, so only computers within the local network will respond.
P-node (peer-to-peer): it uses NetBIOS name server such as WINS to resolve names of the NetBIOS. P-node does not work with broadcasts, because it directly query with the name server, enabling computers to resolve NetBIOS name across routers. P-node requires that all computers should be configured with the NetBIOS name server IP address. If the NetBIOS name server is not functioning, computers will not be able to communicate.
M-node (mixed): combines B-node and P-node, but functions as B-node by default. If M-node cannot resolve name using broadcast, then it uses the NetBIOS name server of P-node.
H-node (hybrid): combines P-node and B-node, but functions as P-node by default. If H-node cannot resolve name using a NetBIOS name server, then for resolving a name broadcast is used.
Windows Server 2003 and Windows XP are configured as B-node types by default. When Windows XP, Windows Server 2003 or Windows 2000 is running on computer and configured to use WINS server addresses for name resolution, then it automatically changes to H-node as H-node node type is for NetBIOS name registration. However, other operating systems may use other node types.

You can use Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) options to assign the node type. To view the node type for a computer, type ipconfig/all at a command prompt.