Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to systems and methods for configuring computing devices to join a peer group. A peer group may be created on a subnetwork by a computing device. When a new computing device enters the subnetwork, it may join the peer group and be given access to the shared resources on the peer group and associated computing devices, using a communications layer and an authorization layer. Allowing a new computing device to join a peer group includes inviting the new device to join and then challenging the device for a passkey of the peer group. After joining the peer group, the computing device will be able to access and share resources with the peer group and other computing devices associated with the peer group.

Abstract: Method and computer storage media for sharing resources between a plurality of computing devices associated with a common non-enterprise network. A common set of credentials is stored on at least two or more of a plurality of computing devices that reside behind a routing device and are associated through a common non-enterprise network. Upon storing the common set of credentials, each of the two or more of a plurality of computing devices create a local account that contains, at least, the common set of credentials. The common set of credentials allow for the sharing, among the two or more of the plurality of computing devices, of resource that reside on or are associated with the computing devices.

Abstract: A method and data structure for creating and accessing folders stored in well known locations. The data structure and method utilizes a set of APIs to create and manage well known folders on a system and/or to locate specific well known folders. The invention provides interfaces to create, locate, extend, and enumerate well known folders. In addition, the invention allows a developer and/or user to customize properties of well known folders.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for sharing items and viewing shared items in an operating system. A user may initiate a search that executes a query on the file system, returning a list of items owned by the user and shared out to other users. In order to increase efficiency and usability of such a query, an index may be created based on the owner and user permissions of the items in the file system. A user interface integrated into the operating system may display the shared items in a single flat list, or search folder, regardless of the various physical locations of the items on the system.

Abstract: A method and data structure for creating and accessing folders stored in well known locations. The data structure and method utilizes a set of APIs to create and manage well known folders on a system and/or to locate specific well known folders. The invention provides interfaces to create, locate, extend, and enumerate well known folders. In addition, the invention allows a developer and/or user to customize properties of well known folders.

Abstract: A method and data structure for separating application data from user data in a namespace. The data structure provides an intuitive profile layout for developers or users while supporting legacy applications. The namespace utilizes a hierarchical structure allowing access by developers or users over a network to information contained in identified public folders and/or a user's profile.