Simple Methods to Access Shared Files or Printer in Windows 7

Here are some simple methods to access shared files or printer of other computers on same network in Windows 7, and you can always choose the method which you prefer. I also assume you have enabled file sharing or other sharing correctly on other computers.

Please also ensure there is no firewall blocking on the computer that you try to access, if not you won’t be able to get the access.

Method 1:

1) Go to Start and click on Computer.

access computer folder in win7

2) A file explorer window will appear, scroll down on left panel to locate and click on Network.

network folder in win7

3) It will then show you all connected computers, printers or other network devices, you can just double-click on the computer to access the shared documents.

Note: Press F5 button to refresh the screen if you do not see the other connected computers or network devices.

access shared files or printer

Method 2:

1) Open Network and Sharing Center, click on See full map.

view full network map in Win7

2) Full network map that contains all connected network devices will be displayed, you can proceed to double-click on the computer to access shared file or printer.

network map in win7

Method 3:

If you know the IP address or hostname of the computer that you wish to access, type the \\\\IP-or-hostname in file explorer bar and then hit "Enter" button, you should then be able to access that computer if it’s online.

In this example, I type \\\\192.168.1.101.

access shared files folder in Win7

Other Articles:

Easy File Transfer by Using Live Messenger
Simple File Sharing in Windows 7

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