Below are instructions for enabling the feature if you wish to share files and printer access with your network, but you can also follow along to disable file and printer sharing if that concerns you. The steps for enabling or disabling file and printer sharing are slightly different for Windows 10/8/7, Windows Vista and Windows XP, so pay close attention to the differences when they’re called out.
Enable or Disable File and Printer Sharing in Windows 10, 8, and 7
Turn On or Off File and Printer Sharing in Windows Vista and XP
Listed here are the different networks you’re using. If you want to disable file and printer sharing on the public network, open that section. Otherwise, choose a different one. Some other sharing options might be available here too, depending on your version of Windows. These might include options for public folder sharing, network discovery, HomeGroup and file sharing encryption. In Windows XP, choose Network Connections and then skip down to Step 5.
