How to share files between Mac and Windows 10

Need to transfer files from Mac to Windows? Don't worry this is a simple process.

There are several ways to share files between these two operating systems. You can easily do this by using the native tool on both operating systems. Also, there are some third party solutions you might consider.

This article will guide you how to share files from Mac to Windows as well as transfer files from PC to Mac.

How to transfer files from Mac to Windows

An easy way to transfer files from Mac to Windows is to use the appropriate functionality on both operating systems.

However, this way has a disadvantage that it only works if both Windows and mac computers are on the same local network. If not, you can move on to third party solutions.

Set up file sharing on Mac

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To share files between Mac and PC, you need to edit some settings. First, you need to allow your Mac to share files. Follow the steps below:

Step 1 . Click on the Apple icon in the upper left corner of the screen.

Step 2 . Go to System Preferences> Sharing .

Step 3 . Check the box next to File Sharing in the left pane.

Step 4 . Click on the Options option and a new window opens.

Step 5 . Check the box next to Share files and folders using SMB .

Step 6 . Check the box next to Share files and folders using AFP .

Step 7. In the Windows File Sharing section , put a checkmark in the box next to the user you want to share the file with.

Step 8 . Enter the user password.

Step 9 . Click Done .

You will be returned to the Sharing window. Next, you need to select the folder and users to share with the Windows computer. Click the plus (+) and minus (-) signs below Shared Folders and Shared Users to adjust options.

Finally, you need to write down the Mac's IP address under the File Sharing: On notification.

Access Mac files on Windows

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Now, access the Windows computer. Follow the instructions below to transfer files from Mac to Windows.

Step 1 . Open File Explorer.

Step 2 . In the address bar at the top of the window, type followed by the IP address of the Mac. For example, the IP address is 192.168.1.68, it will become 192.168.1.68.

Step 3 . A new window will appear asking you for your username and password.

Step 4 . Enter information exactly as on a Mac.

File Explorer will display the folder and the users added to the Shared Folders and Shared Users lists on the Mac. You can move, edit and copy folders like on other Windows folders. Therefore, to transfer files from Mac to Windows, simply drag and drop it into your local folder.

How to transfer files from a PC to a Mac.

Now let's look at the opposite process, moving files from Windows to Mac.

Set up file sharing on Windows

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To get started, you need to make sure Network Discovery is turned on. Open a Windows computer and follow the steps below:

Step 1 . Open the Settings app and access Network & internet .

Step 2 . In the left pane, click Status .

Step 3 . In Change your network settings , select Sharing options .

Step 4 . Expand the Private Network or Public Network menu depending on your current connection type.

Step 5. Check the box next to Turn on network discovery .

Step 6 . Check the box next to File and printer sharing .

Step 7 . Click on Save changes .

Note: You should not enable network discovery or file sharing on public networks because it is often less secure than private networks.

To share a folder on a case by case basis, right-click on the folder name and go to Properties> Sharing> Network File and Folder Sharing> Share .

You also need to write down the Windows machine's IP address ( Settings> Network & internet> Wi-Fi> Hardware Properties) or the computer name ( Settings> System> About ).

Access Windows files on Mac

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When it's done, it's time to transfer files from PC to Mac. Follow the steps below:

Step 1 . Open the Finder application.

Step 2 . In the menu bar at the top of the screen, select Go> Connect to Server .

Step 3 . Type smb: // [IP address] or smb: // [computer name] and press Enter .

Step 4. You will be prompted to enter your Windows username and password.

Step 5 . When ready, click on Connect .

The shared Windows content will be in the Shared section of the Finder. To transfer files from PC to Mac, just drag and drop it.

Other ways to share files between Mac and PC

You are not limited by the above integration methods, there are several other ways to share files between Windows and Mac. These methods will work if two computers are not on the same network.

1. Use cloud storage services

Dropbox, Google Drive and OneDrive all have applications for both Windows and macOS operating systems. You just need to install them on two systems and upload the file. If you have free iCloud storage, you can also consider using it for file sharing.

2. Use USB

A simple but effective solution for people who need to transfer files from Mac to Windows quickly is to use USB.

3. Use your own server

If you have paid for web hosting services, you can download the file using FPT and download it to another device. Some of the best web hosting services include WP Engine, InMotion and Bluehost.

Hopefully, the above methods will help you to share files between Mac and PC easily.