login problem with win 98 networking

Hi all,
I have problems logging onto my home network using win 98se.
It seems the only way I can 'see' my computer in network neighborhood and
browse any shared folders is to go to Start button/ log off and then log on
as a different user.
When the computer asked me for a log on password, I then press return
without inputting a password and only then I can 'see' any computers
connected and
browse the shared folders on them.

I want to be able to use the network from the time the computer is switched
on without logging off and on as a different user - but how?

TIA