How to Share Files and Folders in Ubuntu

This step by step guide will explain how to enable file sharing in Ubuntu, so that you can share files and folders across your network.

1. Sharing files and folders across your network from your Ubuntu PC is every bit as easy as sharing files in Windows (arguably, it’s easier). Start by right-clicking on the folder you want to share, and select Properties



2. Select the Local Network Share tab and then place a check in the box labelled Share this folder



3. In all likelihood you’ll get a message about the sharing service not being installed. Click the Install service button. If you didn’t get a message about the sharing service not being installed, you can skip down to step #7 below.



4. Ubuntu will now install Samba on your computer. This will allow other computers on your network to be able to communicate and share files and folders with Ubuntu. Click the Install button.



5. When prompted, enter your password and click the Authenticate button.



6. Give Ubuntu a few moments to download and install Samba.



7. Once you’re back at the Properties window, place a check in the box labelled Allow others to create and delete files in this folder



8. This time Ubuntu will ask that you grant Nautilus (your file manager) permission to change certain properties of the folder you wish to share. Click the Add the permissions automatically button.



9. That’s it! Other computers on your network will now be able to access the folder you just shared and all of the files within it. Repeat these steps for each folder you wish to share.