In this section we'll show you how to share files, folders, printers and other peripherals in Windows Vista

What should you know about sharing?

The shortest definition I could find on sharing is that "sharing is the joint use of a resource”. Sharing a file, folder or printer in Windows Vista makes the resource available to the users of your network, or only to those that have the rights to use it.

Note: to be able to share any resources, you need to set up a newtwork first.

Sharing files and folders in Windows Vista, the easy way

To change file and folder sharing settings, you are usually going to use the Network & Sharing Center, but before that, let's see an easier approach, shall we?

• Locate the file or folder your want to share using Windows Explorer.
• Once you have found it and you checked that everything is right (you shouldn't send kinky pictures to your boss, not even by mistake!), right click the file/folder.
• Choose Sharing and set the options you need.
• After pressing the OK button, the changes will become active!

Sharing settings from the Network & Sharing Center

Using the Network & Sharing Center to change sharing options is not something you should be afraid of, because things are really simple.

Most options here have radio buttons that allow you to turn them on or off, and there's no need to explain what File Sharing, Public folder sharing or Password protected sharing mean.

Since security should always be your first concern, you should see also see how password protected shares can be created, and you can do it by reading this article (link la Creating user accounts for password-protected sharing)

Sharing a printer in Windows Vista

Once you have your Printer set up the right way, and you are sure it works fine, sharing it is a matter of click & forget.

All you have to do is turn on printer sharing from the Network & Sharing Center, and everyone will have access to it, but when password-protected sharing is on, only the users having the right password will be allowed to print using the shared printer.

Now, check below to see those few easy steps required to share a printer successfully.

• Press the Start Orb, and open the Control Panel.
• Go to the Network and Internet area
• Open the Network & Sharing Center
• Inside the Network & Sharing Center window, select Printer Sharing on
• Now, you printer is shared on the network!

Think printer sharing is too hard? Download Network Magic and see how easy it can be!

Despite the fact that you'll have to get used to the new look and organization of the Control Panel items, including the new ones, using the Network & sharing Center is not hard at all, and sharing your files, folders and printers in Windows Vista is just as easy as always.

Related articles:

• How to create a network in Windows Vista
• Protect your network using user accounts