Sharing files between two computers running Windows is a straightforward task, but it can also be a challenge depending on the type of systems you have set up and the operating system versions you’re running. In this article, we’ll walk through the steps needed to share files from one computer to another in a Windows environment.
1. Create a Shared Folder:
The first step to sharing files between two Windows computers is to create a shared folder. Right-click the folder you want to share and select “Properties” from the context menu. In the “Sharing” tab, click the “Advanced Sharing” button and then check the box next to “Share this folder.” You can then choose a name for your shared folder.
2. Set Sharing Permissions:
The next step is to set the permissions for the shared folder. This allows you to control who can access the files and what they can do with them. To set the permissions, click the “Security” tab and then click “Edit.” From here, you can add users or groups and assign them various permissions for the shared folder.
3. Map a Network Drive:
Once the shared folder is created and the permissions are set, the next step is to map a network drive from the other computer. On the other PC, open up File Explorer and then click the “Map Network Drive” option. Enter the IP address of the computer with the shared folder and then enter the shared folder name. You will then be asked to provide the username and password of an account with access to the shared folder.
4. Access the Shared Folder:
Once the network drive has been mapped, you can now access the shared folder from the other computer. Open File Explorer and look for the new mapped drive listed in the left sidebar. You can now double-click on the drive to open it and view the contents of the shared folder.
5. Turn on Network Discovery:
If you’re having trouble connecting to a shared folder, it may be because the feature called “network discovery” is turned off. To turn this feature on, go to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center > Advanced Sharing Settings. Make sure that “Network Discovery” is turned on and then try mapping the network drive again.
Sharing files between two Windows computers is a simple process if the proper steps are taken. By creating a shared folder, setting the permissions, mapping a network drive, and turning on network discovery, you should be able to share files quickly and easily between two Windows PCs.