Thread: How to enable network discovery and file sharing

A few of our readers reported facing troubles while sharing files with additional PCs from their network. To facilitate them, we determined to make this tutorial. We will explain you how to create your Windows Vista PC observable in your network as well as how to allow file sharing. All you have to perform is to understand cautiously as well as pursue these directions.

The necessary configuration is completed by means of the Network and Sharing Center. To get it, type the word 'network' in the Start Menu search box as well as click on the suitable search result. Otherwise, go to Control Panel -> Network and Internet -> Network and Sharing Center.



First, you have to build your PC observable to other PC in your network. To do this, click on the Customize link appearing on the right side of your network connection.



A wizard will launch which enables you to modify network settings. You can adjust your Network name, choose the location type as well as modify the network icon. To create your PC visible for other computers in your network choose Private as the location type.



When you are done click on Next. In the next wizard window click on Close.



At present, that your PC has become noticeable in your network, you can arrange unusual sharing options.

The primary selection in the Sharing and Discovery list of configuration settings is associated to network discovery. You can switch it on as well as off, making your PC visible or invisible to additional network devices.



The next setting is concerning enabling or else disabling file sharing. To allow it, choose Turn on file sharing as well as click on Apply.



The third configuration item enables you to switch on the so called 'Public' folder sharing. If you switch it on, Windows Vista will produce a folder called 'Public' which will be shared with new public by means of the similar PC or else other computers from your network. Any file or else folder that you will photocopy into the 'Public' folder will be automatically shared with everybody that has access to it.



The next configuration option allows you to share your printer. Choose to switch on the printer sharing, as well as click on Apply and your printer will be shared with the further computers from your network.



The fifth configuration choice enables you to defend all your shared files as well as printers by using a password. If you switch it on, only the people who have a user account with password on your PC will be capable to access them.

If you turn on Media sharing, you can share music, pictures as well as videos with other computers from your network.



To turn it on, click on Change and, in the next window, choose the selection that says Share my media.



Then, click on OK as well as you will start sharing your media.