Set Up HomeGroup Sharing Feature in Windows 8

In this article we will learn how to configure or set up the HomeGroup feature in Windows 8 for connecting with other Windows PCs.

Introduction

The Homegroup feature in Windows provides a great way to share files and resources in the network computers easily in an efficient manner. The new HomeGroup feature makes sharing files and printers between Windows 7 and Windows 8 machines easy. Set up a Homegroup, and Windows automatically begins sharing those items.

However, The HomeGroup feature was first introduced in Windows 7 and is still supported in Windows 8.

So the conclusion is that only Windows 8 and Windows 7 machines have the ability to set up and join the Homegroup.

Here are some steps you must use to connect to a HomeGroup with Windows 8.

Step 1

First Go to the Start Screen of your Windows 8.

Step 2

Open the right Charm bar and select the Setting option from it.



Step 3

Now, click on the Change PC Settings.



Step 4

Or you can directly open the Change PC Settings option using the shortcut Win+I keys.



Step 5

Select the HomeGroup option from the left panel of the PC Setting window.



Step 6

You will see the HomeGroup options in the right panel of the window.



Step 7

Then in the left panel under Libraries and Devices, to share an item, slide its toggle switch to the right.


Step 9

To share those folders with home theater components and game consoles, turn the Media Devices option on, as well.



Step 8

You will notice that a password is automatically generated for you under Membership.



Note: You must enter that same password into each computer you want to include in your Homegroup.

Step 9

Press Alt+F4 to close the window.

This should help get you started sharing files and printers between your Windows 7 machines on your home network.