Access Windows Shared Folders & Stream Videos on Android
Accessing Windows Shared Folders on Android
Do you wish to play video files stored on your computer directly on your Android device, circumventing the need to transfer them to the device's storage?
Establishing a network folder share via Windows provides a solution. This method also facilitates file transfer in both directions, utilizing your Wi-Fi connection.
Setting Up Network Sharing
While Android lacks native support for connecting to Windows shared folders or HomeGroups, the configuration process is straightforward.
Alternative streaming solutions, such as Plex, have been previously discussed. However, sharing folders directly offers a more streamlined approach.
This method allows for convenient access to your computer's files without the complexities of dedicated streaming software.
Benefits of Folder Sharing
- Direct Playback: Stream videos and other media directly from your computer.
- No Transfer Needed: Avoid the time and storage space required for file copying.
- Two-Way Access: Easily move files between your Android device and computer.
- Simple Setup: The process is relatively easy to implement.
By utilizing Windows folder sharing, Android users can enjoy a seamless media experience and simplified file management.
Folder Sharing on Windows 7
To enable access to a folder from an Android device, it's necessary to share it with the “Everyone” group.
Begin by locating the desired folder, then select the "Share with" option from the context menu. Subsequently, choose "Specific people" from the presented list.
Type “Everyone” into the provided field and confirm your entry by clicking the "Add" button.
Initially, the “Everyone” group is granted Read-only permissions. If you intend to allow file transfers from your Android device *to* the shared folder, adjust the permission level to Read/Write.
Finalize the sharing process by clicking the "Share" button after setting the desired permissions.
Following this, navigate to the Network and Sharing Center. A quick way to access this is to click Start, enter “Network and Sharing,” and press Enter.
Within the Advanced sharing settings, consider disabling password-protected sharing. Disabling this feature will allow access to folders shared with “Everyone” without requiring a password.
Alternatively, you can retain password-protected sharing. However, this will necessitate entering user account credentials when connecting to the shared folder from your Android device. While possible, this method may not consistently function.
Important Note: Ensuring the correct network configuration is also crucial for successful folder sharing.
Accessing Network Shares on Android Devices
To gain access to a shared folder from an Android device, the ES File Explorer application will be utilized. This application is both free of charge and of high quality, offering support for Windows shared folders through the SMB protocol.
Within ES File Explorer, navigate to the LAN section by swiping from the right edge of the screen towards the left. Alternatively, the Local option, located at the top left corner, can be tapped, followed by selecting LAN from the displayed list.
Initiate a network scan for PCs sharing files by tapping the New button on the toolbar within the LAN Shares section and then selecting Scan. Manual entry of your computer’s IP address is also possible by choosing Server from the New menu.
Once the scanning process is finished, tap on the desired computer to view its available shared files. Should the scan continue searching even after locating your computer, simply tap the screen to halt the process.
If password-protected sharing was previously disabled, attempt to log in as Anonymous. Otherwise, try using your Windows username and password; however, this method may not always be successful.
Navigate through the file system to locate the shared folder on your computer. For example, if you shared your Videos folder within your user account, tap Users, then your account name, and finally Videos.
While shares like C$ may be visible, access to them is typically restricted. Attempting to access these anonymously will likely result in an error message.
Tapping a file – be it a video, audio track, image, or text document – will initiate its viewing. A long press on a file will reveal a menu, offering options such as copying the file to your Android device.
Files supported by Android, such as MP4 videos, will begin streaming to your device immediately upon being tapped.
