Windows network file sharing

[Donald]

I need to copy the network file sharing from an old desktop to a new desktop for church bookkeeper.

I have fooled with file sharing before. Years ago. A little fuzzy.

What are the basics I need to look at on old PC and redefine on new PC?

I think the "server" is just another desktop running Windows with common files. I do not believe it's actually running Windows Server.

While I am sure I could figure this out, trying not to tie up the bookkeeper's desktop for more time than is needed.

 

[cptbarkey]

If you are using very basic windows networking, make sure they are on the same workgroup.
You can then access the other computer like this.
start-run type in \\computername\c$ <-- c drive. change to another drive as needed, or subfolder, etc

 

[Hall]

Like cptbarkey said, set up the new machine to be in the same "workgroup". If it was never properly configured, it defaults to .... "WORKGROUP". When you do that, open File Explorer on the original machine and SHARE the relevant directories. Once you configure this, go to the new computer, also open File Explorer, in the left-hand pane, open "Network" and you should see the other machine and the shared files. It's a simple "copy and paste" at that point. I wouldn't move them, just in case something goes wrong and the originals get deleted.

 

[Donald]

It's needs to be setup for the bookkeeper so when they boot the desktop all the file sharing will be setup and working.

 

[Hall]

It's needs to be setup for the bookkeeper so when they boot the desktop all the file sharing will be setup and working.

Oh, I misunderstood. The files will remain on the existing machine, you just need the new one to be able to access them. I'm not sure you can "copy the network file sharing" settings though. The "workgroup" steps still apply - set up the new machine with the same workgroup name. Actually, copying and pasting this - "go to the new computer, also open File Explorer, in the left-hand pane, open "Network" and you should see the other machine and the shared files" - is still relevant.