Windows 7 provides a new and exciting feature called Homegroup. This improvement allows users a unique way to network other computers running Windows 7 in a home or workplace situation.
Under Windows 7 you can forget about setting up a conventional network system as Windows 7 Homegroup is simpler and easier to set up. This new feature works with all computers running Windows 7.
What is Windows 7 Homegroup?
Homegroup allows you to connect wirelessly to other computers allowing you to share documents, photos, music and other files as well as your printer. As the initiator of Homegroup you can ensure the security of your files by making them read-only. However, you also have the option of allowing other members of your Homegroup to modify your files.
Setting up a HomeGroup
To create a Windows 7 HomeGroup you need two or more computers running Windows 7. This exercise will involve setting up a HomeGroup for two computers, a Desktop computer and a Laptop computer.
The Desktop computer takes the first step in setting up a Homegroup. This involves deciding whether to share library files and printers and then generating a Homegroup password so other user(s) can join the Homegroup network.
The Desktop Computer
- Click the Start button or press the Windows key.
- When the Start Menu opens, select Control Panel.
- When the Control Panel window opens, in the section labelled Network and Internet, Choose “Homegroup and Sharing Options.”
- The Homegroup window opens, click the button labelled, Create a Homegroup.
- The “Create a Homegroup” window opens, displaying the features you can share – Pictures, Documents, Music, Printers and Videos.
- Check the boxes for those items you wish to share.
- Click the Next button.
- Next, Windows 7 generates a password to allow other computer user(s) to join the Homegroup.
- Click Print password and instructions.
- Give the Password information sheet to the other computer user(s).
- Click the Finish button.
+Note: Your part is now over. The other computer user(s) now has to register their computer to join the Homegroup.
In Creating a Homegroup Part 2 you will learn about registering your Laptop.
