Sharing of files, folders, and printers over a network

 

1. Introduction to Sharing 📂🔗

• Definition: Network sharing allows devices on a network to access files, folders, or printers on other devices.

• Purpose:

  • Collaborate easily without copying files 💻↔️💻

  • Use a single printer for multiple devices 🖨️

  • Save storage and resources 💾

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2. File & Folder Sharing 📁

A. On Windows ⚡

1. Select Folder: Right-click → Properties → Sharing tab

2. Enable Sharing: Click Share, choose users or “Everyone” 👥

3. Permissions:

   • Read: Users can only view files

   • Read/Write: Users can modify files ✏️

4. Access: Other PCs can access via \\ComputerName\SharedFolder

Tip: Map network folder as a drive for easy access:

• Right-click This PC → Map Network Drive → Select folder → Assign drive letter

B. On Linux 🐧

• Use Samba to share folders with Windows/Linux:

sudo apt install samba
sudo nano /etc/samba/smb.conf
# Add folder path and permissions
sudo systemctl restart smbd

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3. Printer Sharing 🖨️

A. On Windows ⚡

1. Open Control Panel → Devices and Printers

2. Right-click printer → Printer Properties → Sharing tab

3. Enable Share this printer

4. Other PCs:

   • Add network printer → Select shared printer → Install drivers

B. On Linux 🐧

• Use CUPS (Common UNIX Printing System):

sudo apt install cups
sudo lpadmin -p PrinterName -E -v socket://IP_of_Printer
sudo systemctl restart cups

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4. Practical Tips for Network Sharing 💡

• Ensure all devices are on same network/LAN 🖧

• Enable Network Discovery & File Sharing on Windows

• Set proper permissions to avoid unauthorized access 🔐

• Use password protection for sensitive files and folders 🛡️

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5. Example Scenario 🏫

• School Lab: Teacher shares assignments folder on server → Students access via network

• Office: Single printer shared among 10 PCs → Print jobs managed centrally

• Home: Family shares a music folder → Everyone can access without USBs 🎵

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💡 Quick Summary:

• File/Folder Sharing: Right-click → Share → Set permissions

• Printer Sharing: Enable sharing on printer → Install on other devices

• Tips: Same network, proper permissions, password protection