A network share is a logical way for other computers to access portions of your hard drive. Other computers see the share on the network and can load and save data files just like a local hard drive. Remember, a network share just represents shared hard drive space - not shared programs. If a program was installed on computer A, you can't normally run it on computer B unless it gets installed there too.

Many people turn their entire hard drive into a network share. I consider this fairly unwise - especially if you have a wireless (802.11b) network. Wireless networking is vulnerable to hackers. With only a few folders shared, only those folders can be easily attacked.

I always suggest creating a folder on your hard drive called 'shared' and sharing that. In this way, you will never have to wonder what files are shared and what files are not.

Create a folder on your hard drive and name it SHARE.  Next, right click the new folder and select "Sharing and Security...".

You should see a display like this.

Be sure both 'Share this folder on the network' is checked.  To make this share READ ONLY, uncheck the second checkbox.

If you see this Click the second link "If you understand the security risks but want to share....." When you see this, select "Just Enable File Sharing"