Pre-login handshake error when connecting to DB

I am using SQL 2K5 enterprise trial version.

I installed the above to a server (A) and installed another copy to a virtual server (B). I also installed a SQL 2K std with sp4 on the second vitual server (C). I am testing the DB mirroring between server A and server B which is working, and testing replication between server A and B (also working), and testing same replication between server A and C which is not working. When I use the 'Connect to Database engine' feature to connect to server C, I get an error:

" Cannot connect to server C.

Additonal information:
A connection was successfully established with the server, but then an error occurred during the pre-login handshake. When connecting to SQL server 2005, this failure may be caused by the fact that under default settings SQL server doesn't allow remote connections. (provider: Named Pipes Provider, error: 0 - No process is on the other end of the pipe.) (Microsoft SQL server, Error:233) "

I have checked to make sure that remote connection and Name pipes are enabled in both servers. I made sure the linked server is also set up in both servers (I don't think it is required but I do it anyway). I checked the error 233 on one of the SQL discussion groups but the suggestions didn't help.

Two SQL 2K5 trial version shouldn't have any issues connecting to each other so I am puzzed as of what is the problem. Any help is very appreciated.

wingman