The need to connect two computers to an external hard drive arises from the fact of sharing data quickly without using internet networks. This can be an excellent option to carry out joint work and edit certain files that can be handled by both computers (and it is that you can even install an operating system on an external hard drive, or boot the operating system from an external hard drive if so desired).
How to connect two computers to an external hard drive?
Making the connection using USB cabling may be the easiest way, but keep in mind that this is a method that requires tools. Most external hard drives have a pair of USB connectors, but this does not mean that they can be used at the same time.
Note that it will be necessary to coordinate the use of the hard drive if both computers will be on at the same time. The most recommended and least risky thing is to use a Switch, this computer tool allows you to connect a device via USB and distribute the information. It is basically the safest way to make this type of connection, the risks of not doing it with this device are quite high.
Connect two computers to an external hard drive using a switch
These tools are designed to allow multiple access to any device connected via USB, they can be found in different types. First, you must choose the necessary Switch, although most have at least 4 ports for other devices, it is possible to find only two. Once you have the Switch, you must connect the hard drive, it will be through the only USB input that this distribution equipment usually have.
For computers, you must use the USB ports that are usually parallel to the previous one, choose a Switch that has the appropriate connectors. This is because, normally, they can include different types of USB, A or B, I remember that this can be used to connect different types of devices.
Once this is done, you only have to turn on the computers and you will have access to the hard disk with ease and without any risk. Please note that some of these switches may require additional power to use with an external hard drive.
Why NOT connect computers to an external hard drive without a mediator?
If you already have an external hard drive, you should know that it requires a power supply to work, normally provided by the PC to which it is connected. This will make the disk work with ease, but the problem is when we connect two or more devices, here the risks begin.
It is counterproductive to directly connect two devices to a hard drive because this (although it may not happen ) often creates an excessive load that can damage the hard drive.
An excess of electricity can cause the hard disk to short circuit, losing all the information it may contain. This being the reason why it is not recommended to connect more than one computer directly to the hard drive, it is more of a preventive measure.
Wireless method of connecting computers
Many people, when the connection with said hard disk, must be constant, they prefer to use more “ simple ” and even cheap means than buying several Switches.
The first thing to do is connect all the computers to the same network, for this, you can use a network router, Wi-Fi connection or through wiring. In this method it is necessary to connect the hard disk to one of the computers, making it directly access the files.
In order to allow other users on the network to access the disk, you must enable it, using the ability to share files with users on the network.
Follow the steps, right-click on the drive> “Properties”> “Sharing”> Check the boxes “Share this file on the network” and “Allow network users to modify files”. With this step, you will have achieved that all those who are adept at the network can access the data, keep in mind that this is ideal only for private networks.
And that’s it, you’re done, so it’s time to go. If you have a problem that has not been raised here, such as an external hard drive appearing or not detected by Windows, then you should look for a solution to this problem on the internet or get advice, because doing it yourself is risky.