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Easy Share - Network File Sharing

June 17, 2010
Easy Share - Network File Sharing

Streamlining File and Folder Sharing on Your Network

Frequently, a simple method for sharing files and folders with others on the same network is needed. This task is relatively straightforward on small home networks with limited devices. However, it can become significantly more complex in office environments where frequent file sharing among numerous users is required.

While Windows offers built-in sharing capabilities, configuring shares and associated permissions can be time-consuming. Easy Share provides a more efficient and user-friendly alternative to this process.

Installation and Initial Setup

Like many applications available for download, Easy Share presents a license agreement prior to installation. Review and accept the agreement to begin the download, which is under 1MB in size. After downloading, install the application.

A potential installation issue may arise if the necessary .NET framework is not already present on your system. Ensure the .NET framework is installed to guarantee Easy Share functions correctly.

Upon successful installation, launch the application. You will be presented with a clean and intuitive user interface, as illustrated below:

easily-share-files-folders-domain-easy-share-1.jpg

The application is divided into two primary sections: "Share details" and "Permissions". The "Share details" section allows you to define the folder and sharing parameters on the network. The "Permissions" section controls user access to the shared folder.

Let's demonstrate the process by sharing a sample folder.

  • Use the browse button next to Local Path to locate and select the folder you wish to share.
  • Assign a share name and a descriptive label to help others easily identify the folder's contents.

These steps complete the folder configuration. The next stage involves specifying the users with whom you want to share the folder and defining their respective permissions.

easily-share-files-folders-domain-easy-share-2.jpg

Managing Contacts and Permissions

The streamlined contact management and permission system are key benefits of using Easy Share, simplifying the process compared to Windows' native sharing and security settings. You can quickly add contacts by utilizing their usernames.

  • Click the manage link to access the user list.
  • Select the Add button and create an alias for easy contact identification.
  • Enter the domain name followed by the contact's username. The "Check" link verifies the user's existence within that domain.
easily-share-files-folders-domain-easy-share-3.jpg

After adding users, they will appear in the main window. You can then select or deselect users to control access to the shared files. Scrolling to the right reveals options to modify individual user permissions for the folder.

easily-share-files-folders-domain-easy-share-4.jpg

Once configured, the application remembers these contacts for future use, significantly accelerating the sharing process. Contact details can be edited or removed as needed.

Conclusion

Easy Share is a valuable utility for simplifying and accelerating file and folder sharing within a domain network. With contacts pre-configured, sharing folders becomes a quick and efficient process with just a few clicks. This application is particularly useful for computers integrated into a domain environment.

What methods do you currently employ to share files and folders on your network? Are there any other tools with comparable functionality that you find beneficial?

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