Computer network allows you to share files with friends, family, coworkers and customers. Before the Internet and home networks became popular, files were often shared using floppy disks. Nowadays , some people still use CD-ROM/DVD-ROM disks and USB keys for transferring their photos and videos, but networks give you more flexible options.
Network file sharing is the process of copying files from one computer to another using a live network connection. This article describes the different methods and networking technologies available to help you share files.
File Sharing with Microsoft windows
Microsoft windows (and other personal computer operating systems) contain built-in features for file sharing. For example, Windows file folders can be shared across a local area network (LAN) or the Internet using the Explorer interface and network drive mappings, You can also setup security access restrictions that control who can obtain the shared files.
FTP File Transfers
File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is an older but still popular method to share files on the Internet. A central computer called the FTP server holds all the files to be shared, while remote computers running FTP client software can log in to the server to obtain copies.
All modern computer systems contain built-in FTP client software, and popular Web browsers like Internet Explorer can also be configured to run as FTP clients. Alternative FTP client programs are also available for free download on the Internet. As with windows file sharing, security access option can be set on the FTP server requiring clients to supply a valid username and password.
Network file sharing is the process of copying files from one computer to another using a live network connection. This article describes the different methods and networking technologies available to help you share files.
File Sharing with Microsoft windows
Microsoft windows (and other personal computer operating systems) contain built-in features for file sharing. For example, Windows file folders can be shared across a local area network (LAN) or the Internet using the Explorer interface and network drive mappings, You can also setup security access restrictions that control who can obtain the shared files.
FTP File Transfers
File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is an older but still popular method to share files on the Internet. A central computer called the FTP server holds all the files to be shared, while remote computers running FTP client software can log in to the server to obtain copies.
All modern computer systems contain built-in FTP client software, and popular Web browsers like Internet Explorer can also be configured to run as FTP clients. Alternative FTP client programs are also available for free download on the Internet. As with windows file sharing, security access option can be set on the FTP server requiring clients to supply a valid username and password.
