Computer networks are a series of computers that are all connected together. They are great for homes and businesses, because they allow users to share applications, files or printers easily without the use of a flash drive or email. Connecting a Mac to an existing PC network is easy to do, but it will not be as versatile as a Mac-to-Mac or PC-to-PC network. A Mac connected to a PC network can only share files and printers with the PC, not applications.
Things You'll Need
- Mac OS X 10.4 or higher
- Ethernet or wireless network
Plug in your Mac to the PC network through the Ethernet hub or choose the wireless network from the Airport menu.
Open "System Preferences" in the Apple menu. Click on "Sharing."
Select "Windows Sharing" from the list of network capabilities. Close System Preferences.
Open "Network" in the Finder’s "Go" menu.
Select the PC network from the list of available networks.
Press "Connect." A network icon will appear on your desktop called "Sharedocs."
Click on the icon to view the files available for sharing with the Mac. Place files in the shared files on a PC or Mac to access them from either Mac or PC.
Tips & Warnings
- You may also select "Printer Sharing" from the "Sharing" menu in System Preferences.
- The shared folder on a Mac is called "Drop Box." The shared folder on a PC is called "My Documents."
- If your network is wireless, add a password to protect it from outside invasion. The Mac must have the password to access the network.
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