File sharing refers to information (in this case information contained in files) on one computer that can be accessed remotely by another computer. File sharing can be done through your Local Area Network, or LAN, remotely through a Virtual Local Area Network, or VLAN, or through standard internet protocals such as FTP, SFTP, HTTP or HTTPS. Shared file access can be run through a centralized file server where only certain computers on the local network or remote network can share certain information, depending on file permissions and firewall rules.

• Benefits of File Sharing

File sharing streamlines your business by allowing the employees or clients who need information or files to access them directly, without the extra steps such as having to contact an individual user to email a specific file from their computer. You can increase data security by making sure that certain files are only accessible to the users who need them. File sharing is also more efficient than trying to access potentially mutliple file versions located on multiple computers, not knowing which version is the latest and correct one.

• File Sharing Requirements

For shared file access, your network will need an operating system that supports it, plus an application layer and a transport layer protocol. For example in Windows you might use a Server Message Block with a TCP transport layer protocol, while with Macs you might use the Apple Filing Protocol with AppleTalk as your transport protocol. Tranquilnet can easily answer any questions about file sharing that you may have, and provide the support you need to get a file sharing system set up at your business.