How to acces Program Files folder over home network?

[Twiller]

Hi,

I recently set up a wired ethernet home network between my notebook and desktop computers. I am the sole user of both machines. The desktop uses XP Pro and the notebook uses XP Home. It works ok except there are some folders I can't access over the network (Windows, Program Files, etc). When I try I get an error message. The help file tells me "The Sharing option is not available for the Documents and Settings, Program Files, and WINDOWS system folders."

My question: Is there anyway around this so I can access ALL the folders on each machine over the network? I'm the sole user of both machines, so is there some way I can use my Administrator's privileges (or whatever they are called) to make all folders accessible over the network?

Thanks,

Allen

 

[OdiN]

If you have admin rights on your other computer try typing this in the address bar:

\\computername\c$

computername = name of your computer on the network.

C$ refers to the default admin-level share for your entire hard drive. If you have the proper login/pass then you will be able to see the whole hard drive. Replace "C" with whatever letter of drive you want to access.

Now...this may not work with your XP Home laptop...I don't know if XP Home specifically limits this capability or the capability to access your windows/program files folders.

 

[Atheus]

The admin shares (like C$) are _not_ present on XP home, but can be created. Or you can share the entire hard drive under a different name.

Keep security in mind. If you don't have an external firewall, a shared C drive will allow any wannabe hacker to completely own your machine.