How to Securely Share Files Between Two Windows 11 PCs Using a Dedicated User

Introduction

Sharing files between two Windows 11 PCs can be done in multiple ways, but the most secure and controlled method is by creating a dedicated user for file sharing. This guide provides a step-by-step method to set up file sharing securely, ensuring only authorized users have access.

Method 1: Secure File Sharing with a Dedicated User (Recommended)

This method is the most secure because it allows file access only to a specific user.

Step 1: Create a Dedicated User for File Sharing

Method 1 to create use with Netplwiz

Yes, you can use Win + R, then type **netplwiz** and press Enter to create a user in Windows 11. Here’s how:

Creating a User Using Netplwiz

1. Press Win + R, type netplwiz, and press Enter.

2. Click Add to create a new user.

3. Select Sign in without a Microsoft account (not recommended).

4. Click Local account.

5. Enter a Username (e.g., FileShareUser).

6. Set a strong password and confirm it.

7. Click Next, then Finish.

Method 2 Using Windows Settings

1. Open Settings (Press Win + I).
2. Navigate to Accounts > Other users.
3. Click Add account.
4. Click I don’t have this person’s sign-in information.
5. Click Add a user without a Microsoft account.
6. Enter the following:
   • Username: FileShareUser
   • Password: (Set a strong password)
   • Security Questions: Answer for account recovery.
7. Click Next to create the user.
8. (Optional) If admin access is required:
   • Go to Settings > Accounts > Other users.
   • Click FileShareUser > Change account type.
   • Select Administrator (not recommended for security).

Step 2: Share a Folder and Assign Permissions

1. Locate the folder to share (e.g., C:\SharedFiles).
2. Right-click the folder and select Properties.
3. Go to the Sharing tab and click Advanced Sharing.
4. Check Share this folder.
5. Click Permissions > Remove Everyone for security.
6. Click Add > Type FileShareUser > Click Check Names > OK.
7. Assign access levels:
   • Read → View files only.
   • Change → Edit files.
   • Full Control → Complete access.
8. Click OK > Apply > OK.

Step 3: Configure Security & Firewall Settings

1. Set NTFS Permissions:
   • Right-click the shared folder (C:\SharedFiles) > Properties.
   • Go to Security tab > Edit.
   • Click Add, type FileShareUser, and click Check Names > OK.
   • Remove Everyone.
   • Set permissions for FileShareUser (Modify, Read, or Full Control).
   • Click Apply > OK.
2. Allow File Sharing in Windows Defender Firewall:
   • Open Windows Security.
   • Click Firewall & network protection.
   • Click Allow an app through firewall.
   • Find File and Printer Sharing and check Private.
   • Click OK.

Step 4: Access the Shared Folder from the Second PC

1. Find the First PC’s IP Address:
   • On the first PC, open Command Prompt and type:

     ipconfig

   • Note the IPv4 Address (e.g., 192.168.1.100).
2. Access the Shared Folder:
   • On the second PC, open File Explorer.
   • Type \\192.168.1.100 in the address bar and press Enter.
   • Enter login details:
     • Username: FileShareUser
     • Password: (Set in Step 1)
   • Click Remember credentials for automatic login.
   • Click OK to access files.

Step 5: Map the Shared Folder as a Network Drive (Optional)

1. On the second PC, open File Explorer.
2. Right-click This PC > Map network drive.
3. Choose a drive letter (e.g., Z:).
4. Type:

   \\192.168.1.100\SharedFiles

5. Check Reconnect at sign-in and Connect using different credentials.
6. Click Finish, enter FileShareUser credentials, and click OK.

Comparison of File Sharing Methods

Alternative Methods for File Sharing

1. Using OneDrive:
   • Upload files to OneDrive and share a link.
   • Best for remote file access.
2. Using FTP Server:
   • Set up an FTP Server on one PC.
   • Access files using an FTP client.
3. Using a USB Drive or External HDD:
   • Simple for offline sharing.
4. Using Cloud Services (Google Drive, Dropbox, Nextcloud):
   • Secure, accessible from anywhere.
5. Using a Local NAS (Network-Attached Storage):
   • Best for advanced users who need high-speed network storage.

Security Best Practices

✅ Use strong passwords for FileShareUser. ✅ Disable “Everyone” access to prevent unauthorized access. ✅ Enable firewall rules only for private networks. ✅ Disable SMBv1 (Old protocol, security risk):

Set-SmbServerConfiguration -EnableSMB1Protocol $false -Force

✅ Monitor access via Computer Management > Shared Folders > Sessions.

Conclusion

By following this step-by-step guide, you can securely share files between two Windows 11 PCs using a dedicated user account. This method ensures controlled access and higher security compared to public sharing. If you prefer cloud-based solutions, alternatives like OneDrive or Google Drive might be more convenient.

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