Before I begin, let me explain what Home Sharing allows you to do. Basically, you can already transfer files between computers on a network using AirDrop. With Home Sharing though, you get a focused functionality that lets you move any iTunes content from one computer to any of the other five authorized on your iTunes Store account. Whether you need it at the office, home, or a friend’s house, it’s going to be right in iTunes and ready for you to use. Let’s get started.
Step One
Switching on Home Sharing requires a quick log-in.First, you’re going to need an Apple ID as Home Sharing relies on it to ensure that you aren’t just giving your friends music. Once you’ve signed in to your account in the iTunes Store, click File, hover over the Home Sharing pop-out, and click Turn On Home Sharing. You’ll now be prompted to type in your Apple ID password to proceed. When finished, click the blue Turn On Home Sharing button and you’ll get a confirmation message reminding you that the feature is “for personal use” only.
Step Two
The success screen.For reference, clicking the "No Thanks" button will not enable Home Sharing. You need an Apple ID to use the feature and you must sign in with it.
Step Three
Signing in to my Home Sharing account (left) and opening the library (right).Something I haven’t touched on yet is the compatibility of Home Sharing. I’ve already said that it works with all computers, but what about your iOS devices? Pull one out and head to the Settings app, then scroll down and sign in with your Apple ID. Now all you have to do is go to the Music app, tap More, and tap Shared. All your items will pop up for streaming and all you have to do is tap them. Think of this functionality as a reverse Remote app.
Step Four
You can also enable photo sharing for Apple TVs.Lastly, you can share your library with an Apple TV on your network. To switch on the service, head to the Computers tab on your device and enter the Apple ID and password you used for Home Sharing on your computer. You can also share photos with your Apple TV by clicking the File button in iTunes on your computer, then hovering over Home Sharing and clicking the Choose Photos to Share with Apple TV button. From there you can a select events and individual photos, or just the whole library.