Buzz
Learn the art of linking two computers together via an Ethernet cable. Once tethered, unleash the power of file sharing between them through the respective sharing settings.
Essential Points to Consider
- Interconnect the computers with a crossover Ethernet cable. Additional equipment like a USB-Ethernet adapter and/or USB to USB-C adapter may be necessary.
- For Windows, activate File and Printer sharing within the advanced settings of the 'Network and Sharing Center.' Then, designate a folder and utilize the 'Share' tab.
- For Mac file sharing, enable File Sharing via 'System Preferences' → 'Sharing.' Subsequently, click on the '+' icon in the 'Shared Folders' section.
Step-by-Step Guide
Initial Steps for Connection
Ascertain the Presence of Ethernet Ports Ethernet ports typically feature a distinct rectangular shape often accompanied by a three-box symbol. They're commonly situated on the side of laptops or at the rear of desktop towers.
- iMac users can locate the Ethernet port at the rear of their monitors.
Procure an Ethernet Adapter if Needed In case your computer lacks an Ethernet port, acquiring a USB Ethernet adapter becomes imperative. These adapters are readily available online (e.g., Amazon) or at tech outlets (e.g., Best Buy).
- Mac users should inspect their USB ports; devices with solely USB-C ports will necessitate an Ethernet to USB-C adapter or a USB to USB-C adapter.
Verify the Availability of a Crossover Ethernet Cable Although most Ethernet ports accommodate both standard and crossover cables, opting for a crossover cable minimizes potential complications. To identify a crossover cable:
- If the wire colors differ between cable ends, it's a crossover cable.
- If the wire colors match from left to right on both ends, it's a standard cable. While usable for most setups, consider acquiring a crossover cable if connecting older computers to each other to avoid issues.
Insert one end of the Ethernet cable into a computer. Ensure that the head of the Ethernet cable aligns with the Ethernet port on your computer, with the lever side facing downward.
- If an Ethernet adapter is necessary, plug the USB end of the adapter into an available USB port on your computer.
Connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to the second computer. Insert the opposite end of the Ethernet cable into the available Ethernet port on the second computer.
- If an Ethernet adapter is required for the second computer, insert it beforehand.
Utilizing File Sharing in Windows
Access Control Panel.Commence
control panelAccess Control Panel
Click on Network and Internet. This option is centrally located within the Control Panel window.
- Omit this step if 'Small icons' or 'Large icons' are indicated next to the 'View' label at the upper-right corner.
Locate and Click on Network and Sharing Center. This link can be found near the top of the window.
- If your Control Panel displays 'Small icons' or 'Large icons,' Network and Sharing Center will be located on the right side of the page.
Click on the Advanced sharing settings link. This link is situated in the upper-left corner of the window.
Enable the 'Turn on file and printer sharing' option. You'll find this option within the 'File and printer sharing' section of the menu.
Click on Save changes. Located at the bottom of the window, this action preserves your modifications and activates file sharing on your PC.
Initiate folder sharing. To grant access to the contents of a shared folder for connected computers, follow these steps:
- Open the desired folder for sharing.
- Select the Share tab.
- Choose Specific people....
- Click the downward arrow in the drop-down menu, then select Everyone.
- Click Share, then confirm with Done.
Gain entry to a shared folder.
Navigate through File Explorer.Mac File Sharing Guide
Access System Preferences.... Located in the drop-down menu, this action prompts the opening of the System Preferences window.
Access the Sharing option. Located within the System Preferences window, this action will open the Sharing window.
Enable the 'File Sharing' feature. Positioned on the left side of the Sharing window, you'll find this option.
Adjust the permissions for 'Everyone'. Click the icon adjacent to the 'Everyone' label, then select the Read & Write option from the ensuing menu. This permits the attached computer to view and modify the contents of any shared folder.
Initiate folder sharing. To share a folder from your Mac to the connected computer, follow these steps:
- Click ＋ beneath the list of shared folders in the Sharing window.
- Select the desired folder for sharing.
- Single-click on the folder to highlight it.
- Click Add to include the folder in the list of shared folders.
Gain access to a shared folder.
Navigate through Finder.Useful Tips
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Additionally, you can share Internet from Windows or share Internet from a Mac while your two computers are connected via an Ethernet cable.
Important Warnings
- Remember to disable file sharing once you have finished transferring files between your two computers.
