Overview
This lecture covers methods for sharing files and data over a network on Windows computers, focusing on PuTTY's SCP tool and Windows shared folders.
File Transfer with PuTTY (PSCP)
- PuTTY includes a tool called PuTTY Secure Copy Client (pscp.exe) that supports the SCP protocol.
- pscp.exe allows file copying between Windows and Linux systems similarly to the Linux SCP command.
- To use: run pscp.exe, specify the source file, destination, and remote location.
Windows Shared Folders
- Windows allows file sharing using shared folders, making files accessible to specified users or groups.
- To share: right-click the folder, choose "Share With," and select "Specific People" to add users or groups.
- You can give sharing permissions to "Everyone," but this is less secure.
Accessing Shared Folders
- Shared folders can be accessed from another computer by mapping them using "Map Network Drive" in "This PC" > "Computer" tab.
- Alternatively, use the Run box with the format
\\computername\foldername to visit the shared folder directly.
Command Line Sharing with net share
- The
net share command allows folder sharing via the command line, including setting permissions.
- For example, to give everyone full permissions to a folder: use
net share shareme=drive:\path /grant:everyone,full in an admin PowerShell prompt.
net share with no arguments lists all currently shared folders on the computer.
Key Terms & Definitions
- PuTTY Secure Copy Client (pscp.exe) — A tool for transferring files using SCP protocol on Windows.
- Shared Folder — A folder on Windows configured to be accessible by other users over the network.
- Map Network Drive — A feature to connect a shared folder as a local drive on another computer.
- net share — A Windows command for sharing folders and managing network share permissions.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice transferring a file using pscp.exe between Windows and Linux.
- Try sharing a folder in Windows using both the GUI and the
net share command.
- Read the supplemental documentation on
net share for advanced options.