Share Folders & Files Between Vista and XP
Sharing Files Between Windows XP and Vista
Given that Microsoft supports multiple operating systems concurrently, it’s common to require file sharing between installations of XP, Vista, Windows 7, or various combinations thereof. This guide details the process of sharing files between a Vista and an XP machine on a home network.
Share Without Password Protected Sharing
If security isn’t a primary concern, disabling Password Protected Sharing offers the simplest method. Begin by opening the Network and Sharing Center on the Vista system. Within the Sharing and Discovery settings, ensure that Network Discovery, File Sharing, and Public Folder Sharing are all enabled.
Furthermore, deactivate Password Protected Sharing.
Next, navigate to the Vista Public folder, located at C:\Users\Public, and either add the files you wish to share or create a new folder for this purpose. For demonstration, a new folder named XP_Share was created and populated with some files.
On the XP machine, access My Network Places and, under Network Tasks, select View Workgroup Computers.
All computers on your network, provided they are part of the same Workgroup, will now be visible. Double-click the Vista computer to proceed.
Access to the XP_Share folder, and any other content within the Public folder, is now granted without requiring a password.
Share with Password Protected Sharing
Should you prefer to maintain Password Protected Sharing, a slightly different approach is necessary. When enabled, attempting to access the Vista machine from XP will prompt for credentials, and access may be denied despite correct input – a common frustration.
To resolve this, the XP machine must be added as a user. Right-click on Computer from either the Start Menu or a desktop icon, and select Manage from the context menu.
The Computer Management screen will open. Expand Local Users and Groups, then select the Users folder. Right-click within an empty area and choose New User.
Create a new username and password. You may also populate the other fields if desired. Importantly, uncheck the option "User must change password at next logon" and check the box labeled "Password never expires." Click Create and close the New User screen.
The newly created user will now appear in the list. Close the Computer Management window.
Returning to the XP computer and double-clicking the Vista machine will now prompt for login credentials. Enter the username and password you just created.
Access to the Public folder contents is now available.
Setting up Sharing on XP
To enable access to a shared folder from the Vista computer that resides on the XP machine, the process is reversed. On the XP computer, within Shared Documents, right-click the folder you intend to share and select Sharing and Security.
Select the radio button next to "Share this folder" and click Ok.
Access Computer Management and create a new user...
From the Vista machine, double-click the XP machine icon, enter the password, and then access the necessary folders and files.
With these steps completed, file and folder access between multiple Windows versions on your home network should be established. For sharing between Windows 7 and XP, or Windows 7 and Vista, refer to our dedicated guides on those configurations.