How to share files between multiple PCs

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Sharing files on Windows
Many of you could be now equipped with an ADSL modem or some other modems that also acts as a router. Once activating its function, you can share files across your LAN easily and very fastly. Here's how you can do it.

Note: We will present here, the steps for a PC running Windows XP and a second under Vista to communicate. Obviously, each configuration is independent and this tutorial will enable you to make a LAN connection with two PCs with Vista (or Windows 7) or two workstations equipped with Windows XP.

Network configuration in Windows XP
The first step in creating a local network. Here's how it is done in Windows XP:

1. In the Start menu, click My Network.
2. In the left column, choose "Create a home network ... .
3. Move to select the connection method through a residential gateway.
4. Continue to enter a group name of work.
5. Enable file sharing and printer and finish the wizard.

Note: For a better functioning, remember to update your operating system via Windows Update.

File sharing in Windows XP
Your network is in place, you can now share the folder of your choice. To do this:

1. Make a right-click on the folder and select "Properties."
2. Go to the tab "Sharing" and check "Share this folder on the network".
3. Confirm by clicking OK.

Your file is now readable on your local network. If you want to give a write permission (for transferring files from another PC to yours), check "Allow network users to change my files" in the previous window.

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Network configuration in Windows Vista
The first thing to do is, again, put your computer in a selected group. To do this:

1. To show the properties of the system, press the key "Windows" and "Pause" on the keyboard simultaneously.
2. Click on "Advanced system settings" on the left of the window.
3. Go to the tab "Computer Name".
4. Click on "Edit" at the bottom of the window and then edit the workgroup. Enter the name of your choice.

Note: This step is not an essential prerequisite for communication between two PCs running Vista, but it is however to establish a link between Windows XP and Vista.

Now go into the Control Panel and more specifically in the Network and Sharing Center. Here, you need to enable all options except the shares protected by password.

File sharing in Windows Vista
File sharing is somewhat more complex in Windows Vista than under XP. Here are the steps:

1. Make a right-click on the folder to share, then select "Properties."
2. In the tab "Sharing", click on "Advanced Sharing".
3. In the new window, click "Share this folder" then "Permissions".
4. Add here the name of your choice. If you choose "Everyone", anyone can access your file. Also define the rights of authorized users: read, modify, full control.

Enjoy.