Configuring File and Printer Sharing on Windows 8

File and Printer Sharing is a Windows operating system feature that enables your computer to communicate to each other and send print jobs to your printer.  All computers should be part of the main network and the same Workgroup or Homegroup for File and Printer Sharing to work properly.
 
What you can do with this feature:
  • File Sharing – This allows easy access and share files and folders on computers that belong to the same Workgroup or Homegroup.
  • Printer Sharing – Allows your computers that are part of the main network and same Workgroup or Homegroup to send print jobs to a printer connected wired or wirelessly to your computer.
NOTE:  You need to set up your Windows 8 Homegroup.  To know how, click here.
 
QUICK TIP:  The information on this article is provided as reference.  For proper File and Printer Sharing configuration instructions, contact Microsoft or refer to the Microsoft support site.
 
Sharing files or folders in Windows 8
Sharing a printer in Windows 8
 
Sharing files or folders in Windows 8
Step 1:
Create the folder you want to share.
 
Step 2:
Right-click on the folder you want to share and select Share with.  Choose the Homegroup you want to share your file.
 
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Step 3:
On the dropdown menu, type a name and click Add.  Alternatively, you can select to find someone and click Share.
 
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You should now be able to share your files on your other Windows computer.
 
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Troubleshooting Tip:

Windows XP, Windows 7/Vista and Windows 8 have a built in firewall that is enabled by default.  For example, a Windows XP computer has the Internet Connection Firewall (ICF) which may interfere when you are trying to configure File and Printer sharing.  For computers on the network that need to participate in file sharing, it is best to lower the level of firewall security or temporarily disable it. 
 
Sharing a printer in Windows 8
Step 1:
On the Charms bar, click Control Panel.
 
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Step 2:
Look for Hardware and Sound and click on View devices and printers.
 
NOTE:  Make sure the View by: is set to Category.
 
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Step 3:
Click on the name of your printer and select Properties.
 
NOTE:  In this scenario, HP Officejet 6600 is used.
 
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Step 4:
Select Sharing and check the Share printer box.
 
QUICK TIP:  The name of your printer will automatically appear on the Share name field.  You may also manually type the printer name.
 
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Step 5:
Click OK.
 
Troubleshooting Tips:
  • Before you proceed with enabling File and Printer sharing, make sure that your printer is able to print when directly connected to a computer.  This is to ensure that the printer is working properly. 
  • If you are having problems when the printer is directly connected to your router, there is a possibility that your printer has a Static IP address and may be in conflict.  It is recommended to set the printer to DHCP so the router may assign a dynamic IP address for your printer.  You may refer to your printer’s manual or contact your printer’s technical support for assistance.

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