How do I share a folder across different network segments on a computer?

Martinez David 0 Reputation points
2025-12-01T01:52:36.98+00:00

How do I share a folder across different network segments on a computer?


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Windows for business | Windows Client for IT Pros | Devices and deployment | System management components
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  1. Q&A Assist
    2025-12-01T01:52:45.8366667+00:00
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    To share a folder across different network segments, you need to ensure that the devices on those segments can communicate with each other. Here are some steps you can follow:

    1. Network Configuration: Ensure that the network segments are properly configured to allow communication. This might involve configuring routers or switches to allow traffic between the segments.
    2. Set Up Sharing on the Host Computer:
      • Right-click on the folder you want to share and select Properties.
      • Go to the Sharing tab and click on Advanced Sharing.
      • Check the box for Share this folder and set the share name.
      • Click on Permissions to set the appropriate access permissions for users or groups.
    3. Firewall Settings: Make sure that the firewall settings on the host computer allow file sharing. You may need to create rules to permit traffic on the necessary ports (typically TCP 445 for SMB).
    4. Accessing the Shared Folder: On the client devices in the different network segments, access the shared folder by entering the network path in the file explorer (e.g., \hostname oldername). Ensure that users have the necessary credentials to access the shared folder.
    5. Testing Connectivity: You can use the command prompt to ping the host computer from the client devices to ensure that they can reach each other across the network segments.

    By following these steps, you should be able to share a folder across different network segments effectively.

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  2. Harry Phan 10,535 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-12-01T12:34:29.62+00:00

    Hello Martinez David

    To share a folder across different network segments, please ensure the folder is shared with the correct permissions via Properties > Sharing > Advanced Sharing. Both Network Discovery and File and Printer Sharing should be enabled in Windows settings. Since the PCs are on separate segments, routing between those networks must be configured on your router or Layer 3 device, and firewall rules should allow SMB traffic (TCP ports 445 and 139). Once these are in place, you can access the folder using the host’s IP address, for example: \\192.168.x.x\SharedFolder.

    If you find this guidance helpful, kindly hit “Accept Answer” so we know it worked for you 🙂.

    Harry.

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