File sharing question

What is the main difference between file transfer and file sharing other
than convenience? I'm assuming that a file transfer routine still starts
when both are on-line. My daughter currently transfers files one at a time
or sends multiple files via a compressed folder. Is files sharing
functionality significantly different? Thanks

They are essentially very similar, except for the underlying technologies.

Sharing Folders will do things like resume transfers, for example if a
transfer is interrupted (buddy goes offline, then comes back online), it
will only tranfer the bits and pieces remaining (not the entire file again).
As you mentioned, sharing foldres lets you drag and drop several
files/folders, and "manage" the shared content with your buddy (Sharing
Folders window, Activity Log, your buddies will get your updates, and vice
versa...).

File Transfer is a more "active" approach to transferring files, while
Sharing Folders can happen in the background (as your buddies come online,
make updates, ...).

Thanks

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Ines K.
Windows Live Messenger
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"Bill W" <> wrote in message
news:. ..
> What is the main difference between file transfer and file sharing other
> than convenience? I'm assuming that a file transfer routine still starts
> when both are on-line. My daughter currently transfers files one at a
> time or sends multiple files via a compressed folder. Is files sharing
> functionality significantly different? Thanks
>

Greetings Bill,

Although the transferring process is similar, it is technically speaking, a different
process. Indeed, Sharing Folders does have some unique functionality including
synchronization and file resume (if you get disconnected).

However, it is still the same that both people need to be online. Although there's nothing
stopping you from adding to your Sharing Folder when the user is offline, the next time
you're both online it will automatically synchronize.

However, in your case (and myself as well), you'll probaby just find yourself just using the
standard file transfer as it gets the job done without the fuss, extra space, or delay for
synchronization.

--
Jonathan Kay
Microsoft MVP - Windows Live Messenger/MSN Messenger/Windows Messenger
Associate Expert
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone/
Messenger Resources - http://messenger.jonathankay.com
All posts unless otherwise specified are (c) 2006 Jonathan Kay.
You *must* contact me for redistribution rights.
--

"Bill W" <> wrote in message news:. ..
> What is the main difference between file transfer and file sharing other than convenience?
> I'm assuming that a file transfer routine still starts when both are on-line. My daughter
> currently transfers files one at a time or sends multiple files via a compressed folder.
> Is files sharing functionality significantly different? Thanks
>

Thank you for your replies - very helpful.

"Bill W" <> wrote in message
news:. ..
> What is the main difference between file transfer and file sharing other
> than convenience? I'm assuming that a file transfer routine still starts
> when both are on-line. My daughter currently transfers files one at a
> time or sends multiple files via a compressed folder. Is files sharing
> functionality significantly different? Thanks
>