Transferring files

  • Article

Applies To: Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2003 R2, Windows Server 2003 with SP1, Windows Server 2003 with SP2

Transferring files

You can use Wireless Link to send selected files or an entire folder to another computer running Windows 98, Windows 2000, Windows XP Home Edition, Windows XP Professional, or Windows Server 2003, Standard Edition.

Establishing an infrared connection

To send files, first establish an infrared link with another computer or other infrared device, as described in the procedure Establish an infrared link. When an infrared device is in range, the infrared connection status Infrared status icon icon appears on the taskbar, and the Wireless Link Certification hierarchy restrictions item appears on the desktop. These indicate only that an infrared device is in range. A data connection is made when Wireless Link or another program communicates over the link. While a program is connected over a link, the taskbar icon changes to the Infrared connection taskbar status icon icon. As long as an infrared transceiver is in range, you can transfer data over the link.

The IrDA Winsock API enables programs to communicate with any device that implements one of the supported protocols, described in Infrared implementation. Simultaneous connections over an infrared link are supported (unless the link is being used for a network connection), so more than one program can use the same link. If you use another program, refer to the documentation provided with it for procedures to transfer data.

Important

  • To enhance security, align infrared devices so that the infrared transceivers are between 0.1 meter (approximately 4 inches) and 0.5 meter (approximately 20 inches) apart whenever you establish an infrared link between two devices. Although there can be up to 1 meter (approximately 40 inches) between infrared transceivers without a loss in data transfer capability, if you place the transceivers closer to each other, you minimize the risk of interference from an attacker. To further enhance security, ensure that all infrared devices and data sources are trustworthy, and, if you are transferring infrared data with another person, conduct the transfer in a private location whenever possible. For more information about infrared security considerations, see Security information for infrared communication.

Note

  • In the Windows Server 2003 family, only Windows Server 2003, Standard Edition, supports infrared networking.