Re-sharing a Shared Folder between Domain PCs on Different Domains in Windows 10

Introduction

In a network of computers, sharing resources such as files and folders is a common practice. However, sharing a shared folder between two computers belonging to different domains can be a challenge. This article will discuss the concepts involved in re-sharing a shared folder between two domains, specifically focusing on Windows 10 PCs and laptops.

Understanding Shared Folders and Domains

Shared Folders

A shared folder is a folder on a computer that is accessible to other users and computers on a network. Sharing a folder allows other users to access the files and subfolders within it. When a folder is shared, a shared folder path is created that can be accessed using a network address or a mapped drive letter.

Domains

A domain is a group of computers that are managed and secured as a single entity. Each computer in a domain has a unique name and is authenticated and authorized by a domain controller. The domain controller is responsible for managing the security policies and ensuring that the computers and users are authenticated and authorized to access resources within the domain.

Re-sharing a Shared Folder Between Domains

Re-sharing a shared folder between two domains involves several steps. The first step is to share the folder on the original computer. Once the folder is shared, it can be accessed from other computers on the same domain. However, accessing the shared folder from a computer on a different domain requires additional steps.

Accessing a Shared Folder from Another Domain

To access a shared folder from another domain, the following steps can be taken:

1. Map the shared folder as a network drive on the destination computer.
2. Enter the credentials of a user account that has access to the shared folder.
3. Access the shared folder using the mapped drive letter or network address.

Adding a Trust Between Domains

Adding a trust between two domains allows the domain controllers to authenticate and authorize users and computers from the other domain. This allows users and computers from one domain to access resources, such as shared folders, on the other domain. To add a trust between two domains, the following steps can be taken:

1. Log in to a domain controller for one of the domains.
2. Open the Active Directory Domains and Trusts console.
3. Right-click on the domain name and select Properties.
4. Select the Trusts tab and click the New Trust button.
5. Enter the name of the other domain and click the Next button.
6. Select the Two-Way Forest Trust option and click the Next button.
7. Enter the trust password and click the Next button.
8. Review the trust settings and click the Next button.
9. Confirm the trust creation and click the Finish button.

References

• Microsoft, "Share a folder," https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/share-a-folder-in-windows-1f1ce565-0bdc-7cbe-f38b-4dfc78a44815
• Microsoft, "Create a trust between domains in Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS)," https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/identity/ad-ds/create-a-forest-trust-between-two-forests
• TechTarget, "Shared folders and drives: How to