How to Create Shared Folders in Windows 11

This article explains how to create shared folders in Windows 11 for everyone to have full access.

When Windows 11 shares are set for universal access, everyone can access the shared location without needing passwords or logins.

This setup allows everyone to create, delete, and modify folders and files within the shared folder. It is ideal for situations where users need temporary access to store content before quickly moving it to more secure locations.

Since everyone has the right to create, modify, and delete, it is not an appropriate place to store private content long-term. Nevertheless, it serves as an excellent platform for developing and sharing information openly among users without access restrictions.

Create a folder to share in Windows 11

If you don’t have a folder to share, create one first. If you already have a folder, proceed to share it.

To share with everyone, we will create a new folder for this tutorial. In Windows 11, navigate to the desired location and click on New, then select Folder from the File Explorer toolbar, as highlighted below:

Please provide the newly created folder.

Create a share in Windows 11

Now that you’ve created the folder to share, follow the steps below to give everyone full access. There are several ways to share a folder in Windows, and this guide will show you the proper method to do it.

Click on the Start menu, then search for “Computer Management,” as highlighted below. Next, click on the relevant result to open the app.

When the Computer Management app opens, expand Shared Folders, right-click Shares, and select New Share. Or click Action on the toolbar and select New Share.

A new share wizard will launch. Follow the wizard to create a new share in Windows 11.

On the next screen, you’ll be asked to provide the folder path of the share you want to create. Click the Browse button to browse and select the Folder you created above.

When you browse, select the Folder you created previously.

Next, you will be prompted to create a name for the share. You can keep the name assigned or type in a new one to match the folder name.

Next, select the permissions you want for the shared folder. There are predefined sets of permissions available. However, for full access by everyone, choose the Customize permissions option in the shared folder permissions dialog box.

Then select Everyone and check the Allow box for Full Control. Click OK when done.

After that, click Finish to complete the wizard.

That should do it! You have created a shared folder in Windows 11 for everyone with full access.

Now that the Folder is shared, for users to get to it, they will need to specify the computer name followed by the shared folder name:

\\COMPUTERNAME\SharedFolderName

In our case above, \\COMPUTERNAME\PublicDocument

Replace COMPUTERNAME with the computer used in your environment.

You may also use this post to learn how to map network shares:

How to Map a Network Drive in Windows 11 – Website for Students

Conclusion:

• Creating a shared folder in Windows 11 allows for easy collaboration among users.
• Everyone with access can create, delete, and modify files in the shared location.
• This method is ideal for temporary storage and sharing of information but not for long-term storage of private content.
• Accessing the shared folder requires specifying the computer and shared folder names.
• Following the steps outlined ensures users can efficiently create and manage shared resources in a business or individual setting.
• Consider mapping the network drive for quicker access in future file management.