Understanding File and Print Sharing
Crystal Panek · 2019
This chapter discusses how to understand the basics of file and printer sharing. Windows 10 provides many ways to share files or printers on a network. The first step is to ensure that file and printer sharing is turned on in the advanced sharing settings in Network and Sharing Center. Some networking methods, such as HomeGroup, also require that your network location be set to Home network. Microsoft offers several ways for Windows 10 users to share resources such as files and printers, either on the same computer (between accounts) or on a network, without the need for a server. To share files and printers with users on other computers, you need to have a wired or wireless network set up. In a typical wired environment, each computer has a network adapter that is connected to other computers and a hub, switch, or router with Ethernet cables. Wireless networks are easier to set up and maintain. Each computer's wireless network adapter connects “over the air” to a router or wireless access point within range. Use the Add Printer Wizard to install the printer, if you have permissions to add a local printer or a remote shared printer. After the printer is installed, it will appear in the Devices and Printers folder as well as in the Device Manager.