When I first started using Linux (OpenSuSE 10.2), I spent a while trying to figure out how to share a folder on it with my Windows machine and vice versa. I found plenty of information through Google, but none of it was in one place. I figure it would be a great idea to put that information in one place for anyone else that wanted to set up a Samba share.

First thing you need to do is activate the Samba server on your Linux machine. It’s an easy process but you will need the root password. Open up YaST and click on Network Services in the left side. In the NetworkServices window, click on the Samba Server icon. You will now have the Samba Configuration window open and it should be on the Start Up tab:

You will want to select the way you want Samba server to boot up. I set mine to “During Boot” but you have the option to select “Manual.” You will also want to open the port in the firewall as well.

Next go to the Identity tab. You will want to enter in the workgroup your other computers are on. Mine were the default Windows “WORKGROUP.” You can also set it up to work on a Domain Controller, but I’m not 100% sure on how that works since I don’t run a DC in my house.

Once you’ve set your workgroup or domain, go to the “Shares” tab. You will be able to manage all the Samba shares here. To add a share, click the “Add” button and you’ll get the “New Share” window. Fill in the “Share Name” and the “Share Description” here. Also set the path to the directory you are sharing here. You are also able to set the share to read only here. This is also how you would share a printer.

Once you’ve filled in all the new share information, clickt he OK button at the bottom right and you will come back to the Shares tab of the Samba Configuration window. Add any more shares that you want and then click the Finish button at the bottom right. It will save all the changes and you will then be able to open your shared folders from another computer: