<P> In computer networking , Server Message Block ( SMB ) , one version of which was also known as Common Internet File System ( CIFS , / sɪfs / ) , operates as an application - layer network protocol mainly used for providing shared access to files , printers , and serial ports and miscellaneous communications between nodes on a network . It also provides an authenticated inter-process communication mechanism . Most usage of SMB involves computers running Microsoft Windows , where it was known as `` Microsoft Windows Network '' before the introduction of Active Directory . Corresponding Windows services are LAN Manager Server ( for the server component ) and LAN Manager Workstation ( for the client component ) . </P>
<P> In computer networking , Server Message Block ( SMB ) , one version of which was also known as Common Internet File System ( CIFS , / sɪfs / ) , operates as an application - layer network protocol mainly used for providing shared access to files , printers , and serial ports and miscellaneous communications between nodes on a network . It also provides an authenticated inter-process communication mechanism . Most usage of SMB involves computers running Microsoft Windows , where it was known as `` Microsoft Windows Network '' before the introduction of Active Directory . Corresponding Windows services are LAN Manager Server ( for the server component ) and LAN Manager Workstation ( for the client component ) . </P>
what protocol does windows use for file sharing
what protocol does windows use for file sharing
Server Message Block ( SMB )
Server Message Block ( SMB )