How to enable simple file sharing in Windows XP

Simple file sharing is an option that you have in Windows XP to make file sharing across a network easier to set up and manage.  For a small network, simple file sharing reduces the number of options and settings, and just allows you to easily share files and folders.  To turn on simple file sharing in Windows XP, follow the steps below.

First, open up a folder on your Windows XP computer.  It can be any folder you want.  Then, click on the Tools option on the menu bar at the top of the folder window.  (If you don't see the menu bar, press the <ALT> button.)  From the Tools menu, select Folder Options.

A new window will open.  In this window, go to the View tab.  Here you will see a long list of settings and options.  Scroll down the list to the very bottom.  Right above "Icon Cache Size" you should see a setting that is labeled "Use simple file sharing (Recommended)."  Click on the box to the left of this setting so that a check mark appears there.  Then click the OK button to close the window and save the change.  Simple file sharing is now enabled on your computer.

(Originally posted on Bubblews.com, November 2013)