Mac OS X 10.2 cannot connect to file sharing over Ethernet when AirPort is the primary interface

This occurs when you're using Mac OS X 10.2 to 10.2.8 and these three conditions are met:

• Built-in Ethernet is configured via DHCP.
  
• AirPort is the preferred configuration (listed first) in the Network Port Configurations list.
  
• You get a local-link (169.254.x.x) IP address.

Use one of these workarounds in Network preferences:

Manually enter a valid IP configuration for the Built-in Ethernet port.

Or

Drag the Built-in Ethernet port to the top of the Network Port Configurations list.