Hey all,
I'm having some trouble doing basic file sharing within a basic network. I am running Windows Server 2012 Essentials R2. The network consists of various Windows 8 pro, Windows 7 and media devices (Xbox 360 etc).
Before on any PC I have always been able to make a folder shared by giving permissions to "Everyone", so every PC on the network can see and use the folder, including media devices like the Xbox 360. (EG, the Xbox 360s System Video Player will display the computer name, selecting it will display the shared folder).
I'm trying to do the exact same thing with Windows Server 2012 Essentials R2 but failing. In the network explorer window on any machine, I can see my server, but selecting it brings up the User Credentials prompt, but I want anyone to access it and see the shared folders. This is also effecting the Xbox, as it cannot see the server at all.
It seems like all I need to do is turn off Password Protected Sharing, but that option is missing entirely from the server! Why is this option missing? Is it something to do with the internal domain? the server has the domain name: HOME.local while other computers are just WORKGROUP. Is this even relevant?
Obviously theres something serious networking knowledge im missing here.. any help strongly appreciated!