(Private Network Edition)
Introduction
Sharing folders across a network can be incredibly useful for collaboration, backups, or accessing files from different devices. In this guide, we’ll walk through the steps to create a shared folder on a private network in Windows 10.
Prerequisites
Before we begin, ensure the following:
- You are connected to a private network (such as your home network).
- File and printer sharing is turned on for your network profile.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Set Your Network Profile to Private
- Click on the Start menu and select Network Connections.
- In the right-hand column, click on Network and Sharing Center.
- Under All Networks, find Password-protected sharing and select Turn off password-protected sharing1.
2. Create a Shared Folder
- Right-click on the folder you want to share and select Properties.
- Go to the Sharing tab at the top of the Properties window.
- In the Network File and Folder Sharing section, click the Share button.
- Choose Sharing Permissions and set the access level for the shared folder (e.g., Read-only, Change, or Full Control).
- Press OK to apply the changes. The folder is now shared, and the network path should be displayed.
3. Access the Shared Folder
- On another computer within the same network, open File Explorer.
- Click on This PC and type the network path of the shared folder in the address bar.
- You should see the shared folder and its files.
Bonus: Map the Shared Folder as a Network Drive
- To make it easier to access the shared folder, you can map it as a network drive.
- Go to Computer, select Map network drive, and paste the network path of the folder.
- Choose a drive letter and click Finish.
- You can now access the shared folder via the mapped network drive.
Conclusion
Sharing folders on your private network enhances collaboration and simplifies file access. Remember to keep security in mind by adjusting permissions appropriately. Happy sharing! 📁🔗
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