Networking/between two computers/sharing

[Tregg Smith]

Not that I didn't try but does anyone have an explanation of how to get a document printed from one machine on the wireless network to the other computer that has the printer wired to it? Or for that matter share any file between the two machines? It's all wireless via router. I looked in the control panel and found a list of connected devices one of which was the computer w/ the document to print but it wouldn't let me access that computer. One machine is Win Vista and the other is Windows 7

 

[TylerH]

There's a couple ways. If you just want to print, install a print server program (for example, http://download.cnet.com/PrinterShare-32-bit/3000-18507_4-75211580.html).

If you want to be able to transfer documents to the other computer, and it's a Windows, you'll have to setup "sharing." That's a pain to walk someone through, and I'm sure there's a billion sites that explain it, so just use Google. :)

The alternative is just to buy a print server (hardware), that let's you network your printer to any computer on your home network.

 

[mathman]

You could email the document from one machine to the other. I have a vaguely similar problem and that's what I do.

 

[I like Serena]

Hi Tregg Smith!

I googled: "how to get a document printed from one machine on the wireless network to the other computer that has the printer wired to it".

This is the third hit, that I think answers your question perfectly (with good pictures):
http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/9040/how-to-share-files-and-printers-between-windows-7-and-vista/

Of course, like mathman said, emailing works too (I do that when I lack administrative privileges or if it's a one-time only thing).
Or using an USB stick to transfer the files (I do that at work, where we're not allowed much).

 

[LudusRex]

I can suggest a few potential solutions for your networking issue. First, make sure that both computers are connected to the same wireless network and that the printer is also connected to the network. This will ensure that all devices can communicate with each other.

Next, check the printer settings on the computer with the wired connection. Make sure that the printer is set to be shared on the network. You may need to refer to the printer's manual or contact the manufacturer for specific instructions on how to do this.

Once the printer is set to be shared, you should be able to access it from the other computer. In the control panel, look for the option to add a printer and select the shared printer from the list of available devices. This should allow you to print from the other computer as if the printer were directly connected to it.

To share files between the two computers, you can use the built-in file sharing feature in Windows. In the control panel, look for the option to set up a homegroup or network. Follow the prompts to create a homegroup and select the files and folders that you want to share. Then, on the other computer, you can join the same homegroup and access the shared files.

If you continue to have trouble with the network, you may need to troubleshoot the wireless connection or consult with a technician for further assistance. Overall, the key is to ensure that all devices are connected to the same network and that the appropriate sharing settings are enabled.