Windows Networking & File Sharing
Key Takeaways
- Workgroups are peer-to-peer networks suitable for small offices (under 10 computers), while domains use Active Directory with centralized management for enterprise environments.
- Mapped network drives use UNC paths (\\\\servername\\sharename) to provide persistent connections to shared folders on other computers or file servers.
- Windows network discovery and file sharing must be enabled in the Network and Sharing Center for other devices to see the computer on the local network.
- HomeGroup has been removed since Windows 10 version 1803 — use standard file sharing, nearby sharing, or cloud-based sharing instead.
- Printer sharing in Windows allows other network users to print through a computer that has the printer directly connected, acting as a print server.
Last updated: March 2026
Windows Networking & File Sharing
Workgroup vs. Domain
| Feature | Workgroup | Domain |
|---|---|---|
| Management | Decentralized (each PC managed individually) | Centralized (Active Directory on domain controller) |
| User Accounts | Local accounts on each computer | Domain accounts stored on domain controller |
| Group Policy | Local only (per machine) | Centralized policies applied across all computers |
| Scale | Small networks (under 10 computers) | Enterprise (unlimited computers) |
| Authentication | Each computer authenticates independently | Domain controller authenticates all users |
| Windows Edition | All editions | Pro/Enterprise required to JOIN a domain |
| Cost | Free (no server required) | Requires Windows Server license |
Joining a Domain
- Requires Windows Pro or Enterprise (Home cannot join)
- Computer must have network access to the domain controller
- DNS must point to the domain controller's DNS server
- Settings > System > About > Join a domain
- Restart required to complete the process
File Sharing
Sharing a Folder in Windows
- Right-click the folder > Properties > Sharing tab
- Click Share or Advanced Sharing
- Select users/groups and set permissions (Read, Read/Write)
- Note the network path (UNC path):
\\COMPUTERNAME\ShareName
Accessing Shared Folders
- File Explorer: Navigate to \COMPUTERNAME\ShareName
- Map Network Drive: Right-click This PC > Map Network Drive > Enter UNC path
- Command Line:
net use Z: \\SERVER\ShareName(maps to drive letter Z:)
Administrative Shares (Hidden)
Windows creates hidden administrative shares by default:
| Share | Path | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| C$ | \\computer\C$ | Root of C: drive (admin access only) |
| D$ | \\computer\D$ | Root of D: drive (admin access only) |
| ADMIN$ | \\computer\ADMIN$ | Windows directory |
| IPC$ | \\computer\IPC$ | Inter-process communication |
| PRINT$ | \\computer\PRINT$ | Shared printer drivers |
Exam Tip: The $ at the end of a share name makes it hidden — it will not appear when browsing the network but can be accessed by typing the full UNC path.
Network Profiles
Windows applies different firewall and sharing settings based on the network type:
| Profile | Settings | Use When |
|---|---|---|
| Private | Network discovery ON, file sharing ON | Home or trusted office network |
| Public | Network discovery OFF, file sharing OFF | Coffee shops, airports, public Wi-Fi |
| Domain | Managed by Group Policy | Connected to a domain network |
Security Tip: Always set public Wi-Fi networks to the Public profile. This disables network discovery and file sharing, protecting your computer from other users on the same network.
Printer Sharing
Share a Locally Connected Printer
- Connect the printer to the host computer via USB
- Open Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners (or Control Panel > Devices and Printers)
- Select the printer > Manage > Printer Properties > Sharing tab
- Check Share this printer, give it a share name
- Other users connect via \COMPUTERNAME\PrinterShareName
Network Printer (Direct IP)
- Connect printer directly to the network via Ethernet or Wi-Fi
- Assign static IP or DHCP reservation
- Users add the printer using its IP address
- No host computer required — printer is independently accessible
Test Your Knowledge
What Windows edition is required to join an Active Directory domain?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
What does the $ symbol at the end of a Windows share name (like C$) indicate?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
When connecting to a public Wi-Fi network at a coffee shop, which network profile should Windows use?
A
B
C
D