The Public folder is a useful way to share files on your computer. Whether you’re using a Windows machine or another modern OS, the Public folder offers a convenient way to make other people view files you shared with them.
Files that are put in the public folder are automatically viewable by anyone with access to the same computer or those on your network provided file sharing is enabled.
Stuff in the Public folder are automatically shared with people who have access to your computer using local accounts or network access.
The Public folder is not the only way to share documents with people you want to share with but it’s another way to do it that requires no complicated setup.
Where is the Public Folder
In Windows, the Public folder is at C:\Users\Public. By default, you’ll see the following folders in it: Documents, Downloads, Music, Pictures and Videos.
In Ubuntu, the Public folder is in your home folder. Open Nautilus and in your Home folder, you’ll see the Public folder.
How to access folders put in the Public folder
Again, any file in the Public folder it will automatically be visible to everyone on the local machine. In Ubuntu, all users personal folders are automatically visible to everyone who has an account on the machine. This is a huge problem in Ubuntu.
If you want to prevent everyone from viewing your home folder automatically in Ubuntu, read previous post on preventing users from browsing your folders in Ubuntu.
For users on the same machine with the shared documents using Windows, open File Explorer or Windows Explorer. Go to the Local Disk ( C: ) and browse to C:\Users\Public to view the shared documents.
To access the document remotely over the network, use this UNC path: \\Computer_Name\Users\Public. File sharing must be enabled on the Windows computer before anyone can access files remotely. Read about file sharing in Windows here.
You must also disable or turn off password protected sharing from the Advanced file sharing page.
With Samba installed in Ubuntu, users can access shared public files in Microsoft Windows from Nautilus. See the screenshot below.
Samba must first be installed on the Ubuntu machine and File sharing enabled on the Windows computer before this will work. When everything is setup, use Ubuntu or other OS to view Windows public shares.
You’ll be able to access the page without password prompts.
The thing to remember when connecting via network sharing is,
- public sharing must be enabled on the Windows machine
- Turn off password protected sharing
- If using Ubuntu, make sure Samba is installed and both machine on the same network
Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to share files using the Public folder in Windows?
To share files using the Public folder in Windows, simply place the files you want to share in the C:UsersPublic directory. These files will then be accessible to anyone with access to the same computer or network.
Where is the Public folder located in Windows?
In Windows, the Public folder can be found at C:UsersPublic. By default, it contains folders such as Documents, Downloads, Music, Pictures, and Videos.
How can I access files placed in the Public folder?
To access files in the Public folder, navigate to C:UsersPublic on your Windows machine. The files placed in this folder are automatically visible to all users on the local machine.
Can I share files with others using the Public folder in Ubuntu?
Yes, in Ubuntu, you can share files with others by placing them in the Public folder located in your home directory. Users with accounts on the machine can access these files.
How to access shared documents on the same Windows machine?
To access shared documents on the same Windows machine, open File Explorer or Windows Explorer, then navigate to C:UsersPublic. The shared documents will be visible in this directory.
How do I view shared documents remotely over the network in Windows?
To view shared documents remotely over the network in Windows, use the UNC path: \Computer_NameUsersPublic. This path allows you to access the shared documents from another computer on the network.
Can I prevent others from viewing my home folder in Ubuntu?
Yes, you can prevent others from automatically viewing your home folder in Ubuntu. Check out the previous post on preventing users from browsing your folders in Ubuntu for detailed instructions.
What is the benefit of using the Public folder for file sharing?
The Public folder provides a simple and convenient way to share files with others on the same computer or network without the need for complex setup. It allows for easy access to shared documents and media.