Accessing a shared folder on a network in Windows 10 is a straightforward process. First, ensure both computers are on the same network. Then, open “File Explorer,” navigate to the “Network” section, find the computer with the shared folder, and double-click to access it. Enter credentials if prompted.
Accessing a shared folder on your network using Windows 10 will enable you to view and modify files stored on another computer. Follow these steps to connect to the shared folder effortlessly.
Step 1: Connect Both PCs to the Same Network
Ensure both PCs are connected to the same local network.
For instance, if you are using Wi-Fi, make sure both computers are on the same Wi-Fi network. This is crucial because if they are on different networks, they won’t be able to communicate.
Step 2: Open “File Explorer”
Launch “File Explorer” from the taskbar or by pressing “Windows + E.”
“File Explorer” is the gateway to your files. This is where you’ll navigate to find the networked computer and subsequently the shared folder.
Step 3: Go to “Network” Section
In “File Explorer,” click on “Network” in the left sidebar.
This section will show all the devices connected to your network. It might take a few seconds for all devices to appear.
Step 4: Locate the Computer with the Shared Folder
Find the computer that has the shared folder you want to access and double-click on it.
Once you locate the computer, double-clicking it will show you the folders shared on that computer.
Step 5: Enter Login Credentials if Prompted
If a login prompt appears, enter the username and password for the computer sharing the folder.
These credentials are usually the ones you use to log into the computer with the shared folder. If you don’t know them, you may need to ask the person who owns the computer.
Step 6: Access the Shared Folder
Navigate to the shared folder and double-click to open it.
Once you’ve entered the login credentials, you should have access to the shared folder and its contents. You can now read, write, or modify the files, depending on the permissions set by the owner.
After completing these steps, you’ll be able to see and interact with the contents of the shared folder as if it were on your own computer. It’s a handy way to share files between multiple devices on the same network.
- Ensure both computers are awake and not in sleep mode.
- Make sure network discovery is turned on under “Network and Sharing Center.”
- Check the folder’s sharing permissions to ensure you have the necessary access.
- Restart your router if the shared computer doesn’t appear.
- Use the correct login credentials if prompted, as incorrect ones will deny access.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I can’t see the other computer in the network?
Ensure that network discovery is turned on and that both computers are connected to the same network.
Why am I being asked for a password?
The computer sharing the folder may have password-protected sharing enabled. Use the username and password for that computer.
How do I know if network discovery is on?
Go to “Network and Sharing Center” -> “Change advanced sharing settings” -> Make sure “Turn on network discovery” is checked.
What if I still can’t access the shared folder?
Check the sharing permissions and ensure you have the necessary rights to access the folder.
Can I access a shared folder on a different network?
No, both computers must be on the same local network to share folders this way.
Summary
- Connect Both PCs to the Same Network
- Open “File Explorer”
- Go to “Network” Section
- Locate the Computer with the Shared Folder
- Enter Login Credentials if Prompted
- Access the Shared Folder
Conclusion
Accessing a shared folder on a network in Windows 10 is easier than you might think. By making sure both computers are on the same network, launching “File Explorer,” and navigating to the network section, you can quickly find the shared folder you need. Entering any required login credentials will grant you access, making file sharing a breeze.
If you run into any issues, check your network discovery settings or ensure you have the appropriate sharing permissions. Following these steps will make the process smooth and hassle-free. For more detailed guides, you can always look up additional resources or reach out to tech forums. File sharing has never been this straightforward!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.