How to Access Files from Another Computer on the Same Network

If you have two or more computers connected to the same Wi-Fi or LAN network, you can access files between them without using flash disks, cables, or online storage. Windows has built-in tools that make this possible, safe, and fast.

This guide explains everything clearly, including exactly how Computer B accesses files from Computer A, step by step.

What You Need Before You Start

Make sure:

• Both computers are connected to the same network

• The network is set to Private

• You have administrator access

• Both computers are turned on

To avoid confusion, we’ll use this naming:

• Computer A → The computer sharing files

• Computer B → The computer accessing the files

Step 1: Share a Folder on Computer A

On Computer A:

1. Right-click the folder you want to share

2. Click Properties

3. Open the Sharing tab

4. Click Advanced Sharing

5. Tick Share this folder

6. Click Permissions

7. Select Everyone

8. Allow Read (or Full Control if needed)

9. Click Apply → OK

At this point, the folder is shared on the network.

Step 2: Enable Network Sharing on Computer A

Still on Computer A:

1. Open Control Panel

2. Go to Network and Sharing Center

3. Click Change advanced sharing settings

4. Turn ON:

   • Network discovery

   • File and printer sharing

5. Ensure the network profile is Private

6. Click Save changes

Step 3: Access Computer A from Computer B (Main Method)

Now move to Computer B.

1. Open File Explorer

2. Click Network on the left panel

3. Wait a few seconds for devices to load

4. Find Computer A’s name

5. Double-click it

6. Open the shared folder

If Windows asks for login details:

• Enter the username and password of Computer A

You now have access to the files.

Step 4: If Computer A Does Not Appear (Very Common Fix)

Sometimes Windows doesn’t automatically show devices. Use the IP method.

Find the IP Address on Computer A

1. Press Windows + R

2. Type cmd → Enter

3. Type:

   ipconfig

4. Note the IPv4 Address (example: 192.168.1.20)

Use the IP Address on Computer B

1. Press Windows + R

2. Type:

   \\192.168.1.20

3. Press Enter

The shared folders will open immediately.

Step 5: Map the Shared Folder as a Drive (Optional but Recommended)

On Computer B:

1. Open the shared folder

2. Right-click it

3. Click Map network drive

4. Choose a drive letter (for example, Z:)

5. Click Finish

Now the folder appears like a normal local drive every time you open File Explorer.

Common Problems and Simple Fixes

“Access Denied” Error

• Check permissions on Computer A

• Ensure “Everyone” has access

• Confirm correct username and password

Computer Not Showing on Network

• Restart both computers

• Confirm both are on Private network

• Temporarily disable firewall for testing

Keeps Asking for Password

• Use Computer A’s login details

• Or create the same user account on both PCs

Security Tips You Should Not Ignore

• Share only specific folders, not entire drives

• Remove sharing when not needed

• Use strong passwords

• Never enable file sharing on public Wi-Fi

• Keep Windows updated

Who Should Use Network File Sharing?

• Homes with multiple PCs

• Small offices

• Schools and labs

• Design teams

• Accounting offices

Conclusion

Accessing files between computers on the same network saves time and improves productivity. When done correctly, Windows file sharing is fast, reliable, and secure.

For businesses, however, incorrect permissions and poor network setup can easily expose sensitive data. This is where professional support matters.

Crosz Tech helps individuals and companies:

• Set up secure local networks

• Configure shared folders properly

• Manage user permissions

• Protect business data

If you want your network set up the right way, securely and professionally, Crosz Tech can help.