How to Create a Shared Folder on a Windows Network

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How to Create a Shared Folder on a Windows Network

Sharing a folder over a network allows other users on your network to access the folder and its contents. Here’s how to create and configure shared folders:

1. Create the Folder:

First, create the folder you want to share:

  • Right-click anywhere on your desktop or inside a directory.
  • Select New > Folder and give it a meaningful name, e.g., “SharedDocs” or “ProjectFiles.”

2. Enable Sharing:

Once you’ve created the folder, follow these steps to share it with other computers on the network:

  • Right-click on the folder and select Properties.
  • Navigate to the Sharing tab.
  • Click Advanced Sharing and check the box next to Share this folder.
  • Click Permissions to manage which users can access the folder and what permissions they have (read, write, full control).
    • For example, select Everyone if you want the folder accessible to everyone on the network.

3. Access the Shared Folder from Another Device:

On another device connected to the same network, you can access the shared folder using File Explorer.

  • Open File Explorer and type \\YourComputerName\SharedFolderName in the address bar (replace YourComputerName and SharedFolderName with your actual PC name and folder name).
  • You should now see the shared folder. If prompted, enter the credentials of a user with access.

4. Map Network Drive (Optional):

To make the shared folder easier to access, you can map it as a network drive.

  • Right-click This PC in File Explorer and choose Map network drive.
  • Choose a drive letter and enter the folder’s path (e.g., \\YourComputerName\SharedFolderName).
  • Check the box Reconnect at sign-in if you want the drive to reconnect automatically when the computer starts.
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