How to network two computers in Windows 10

Windows 10 users who wanted to share files with other members of their household or co-workers in a small office often relied on HomeGroup, a technology that allowed them to share resources on a small local network. But Windows 10 April 2018 Update (version 1803) discontinued this service.

You can still perform the same tasks, but as a replacement you have to use Windows 10’s built-in sharing tools, such as OneDrive, Share, and Nearby Sharing. In this article, we will guide you to connect.

Share files using File Explorer

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

Sharing a file with someone in your home (or around the world) is easy, here’s how.

1. just open File Browser (Windows key + E) and browse to the file you want to share. You can select multiple files if you wish.
2. Then click on the Share taband you will see the share button in the upper left corner of the window.
3. Clicking this button will open a dialog box asking you to select the sharing method, including email, nearby sharing, or a Microsoft Store app. Clicking Tap to turn on nearby sharingwill allow you to share with any nearby computer running Windows 10 April 2018 Update or later with compatible Bluetooth adapters.

Share a drive using File Explorer

As mentioned below in WhipScorpion’s comments, you can also share an entire 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 Exchange tab, click Advance distribution…
3. Then click on the Share this folder box.
4. Then click Permissions to set the drive’s read/write access.
5. From here, set the permissions as you need them, click Applyand then OK
   
6. Finally, clickOK to close the window.

Share files with OneDrive

Here’s how to share files stored on OneDrive.

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

Under the Share a OneDrive link context menu item, you will find an option to More sharing options on OneDrive. This will allow you to set permissions for the shared file, including the ability to edit it, set an expiration date, set a password, and share via social networks.

Networking Windows 10 Computers

For most people, these methods will be all they will 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 building a NAS (network attached storage) device or a more reliable backup storage solution for your files and images? Share your thoughts below.