How do I share files between two computers?

Answer: Once you've created your wired or wireless network, sharing files is pretty simple. If you are using Windows, you should first make sure that the "File and Printer Sharing" box is checked. This option is located in the Properties tab of the the Network Connections Control Panel. Once file sharing is enabled, you can just right-click the drive, folder, or file you would like to share, and select "Sharing and Security." Then choose "Share this Folder" or "Share this File," enter any other permissions, and click OK. To access shared files from a networked computer, open "My Network Places" and locate the computer's name. Double-click the computer's icon and the list of shared files should show up. You can drag the shared files onto your hard disk or a folder on your desktop just like you can with local files.

To share files on Mac OS X, you must first enable File Sharing by opening System Preferences and clicking the "File Sharing" box in the Sharing preference panel. You can view networked computers by opening a new window in the Finder and clicking the "Network" icon. Another way to view the local network is to choose "Connect to Server..." from the Go menu in the Finder and click the "Browse" button in the window that appears. Once the network window is open, double-click the computer you would like to access and you will be prompted for username and password. If there is none required, just hit Enter without typing anything. Otherwise, enter the correct login information and click "Connect." The computer's folder of shared files will appear on the desktop, allowing you to access them like local files on your hard drive.

Published: March 25, 2005   —   Updated: November 22, 2010 — by Per Christensson