File & Printer Sharing Software

Setting up a network lets you share files and use a common printer for all computers.

One benefit of running a network at your home or office is that it removes the need to transfer files manually. Instead, you can use file and printer sharing software to allow computers to trade files and share a single printer.

Windows File and Print Sharing

All recent version of Windows have built-in file and print sharing. In Windows 7, you can access this service through the "Control Panel." Click "Network and Internet," then open the "Network and Sharing Center." Enable "Network Discovery" to search your network for common printers and shared files. Set your system's shared files and printers by right-clicking the file, folder or printer in "Windows Explorer" and choosing "Sharing." To print to a shared printer, select it from the program's Print dialog box.

Cross-Platform File Sharing

Users running both PC and Mac computers on the same network can use cross-platform file and printer sharing software. These programs facilitate communications between different versions of the Windows and Mac operating systems. They allow Mac users to browse Microsoft networks and mount shared volumes for remote drives. You can select the files and folders that you want to share on the network.

Printer-Specific Software

While your operating system can handle basic printer sharing, most printer manufacturers have specific software for their machines that utilizes the printer's strengths across your entire network. Visit your printer manufacture's website to download printer sharing software specific to your printer.

References

• Microsoft Support: Enable File and Print Sharing

Resources

• Open Directory Project: File and Print Sharing Software