How To Network Two Computers in Windows 10

Windows 10 users wanting to share files with other members of their household, or coworkers in a small office, often relied on HomeGroup, a technology that allowed you to share resources on a small local network. But the Windows 10 April 2018 update (version 1803) discontinued this service.

You can still accomplish the same tasks, but as a replacement, you need to use the Windows 10 built-in sharing tools like OneDrive, Share, and Nearby Sharing. In this article, we’ll walk you through getting connected.

Sharing Files Using File Explorer

Before we get started, it’s important to note that the devices must be on the same network to communicate. Just like how a radio antenna picks up only on the signal that it’s tuned to, computer networks also operate on different frequencies and channels to help prevent interference.

Sharing a file to someone in your house–or across the globe–is easy, here’s how.

1. Just open File Explorer (Windows key + E), and find the file you’d like to share. You can select multiple files if you wish.
2. Then, click the Share tab, and you’ll see the Share button in the upper left corner of the window.
3. When you click this button, a dialog box will open, asking you to select the sharing method, which includes Email, Nearby sharing, or a Microsoft Store app. Clicking on Tap to turn on nearby sharing will allow you to share with any nearby computer running the Windows 10 April 2018 update or later with compatible Bluetooth adapters.

Sharing a Drive Using File Explorer

As mentioned below in the comments by WhipScorpion, you can also share a whole drive over the network.

Here’s how to share a drive in Windows 10.

1. Right-click on the drive you want to share and select Give access to > Advanced sharing…
2. Now, within the Sharing tab, click on Advanced Sharing…
3. Then, click on the Share this folder checkbox.
4. Next, click on Permissions to adjust the read/write access for the drive.
5. From here, set the permissions how you need them, click Apply and then OK
   
6. Finally, click OK to close the window.

Sharing Files with OneDrive

Here’s how to share files stored on OneDrive.

1. Open the File Explorer, navigate to your OneDrive folder, right-click on the file you want to share, and then select Share a OneDrive link.
2. This will create a unique link to the file location in OneDrive which will be copied to your clipboard. You can then paste that link into an email message, or share it however you like. Only people with that link will have access to the file.

Below the Share a OneDrive link contextual menu item, you’ll find a choice for More OneDrive sharing options. This will allow you to set permissions for the shared file, including the ability to edit, setting an expiration date, setting a password, and sharing via social media.

Networking Computers with Windows 10

For most people, these methods will be all you need to get those documents into other people’s hands. Remember to check your file permissions and network settings when setting up file/drive sharing.

Are you creating a NAS (Network Attached Storage) device or a more reliable backup storage solution for your files and pictures? Share your thoughts below.