It is intended to achieve an arrangement wherein, when file information of shared disks which are distributed in a plurality of computers connected to a network are used, operating conditions at the time of accessing shared disks can be defined, thus enabling users to easily share files without being bothered by setting-up, or operations of computers located on the other side when they are to perform
file sharing.In order to achieve the above-stated arrangement, a
storage management integrated
server 100 is provided in a network, and respective computers register conditions, an
accessibility states and use types pertaining to shared volume to be offered to the
server. Thereafter, when a certain computer is to make a file accessing to a shared volume, the computer makes an inquiry to the
storage management integrated
server for an adequate access destination, determines, on the basis of a response from the server, computers which are suitable to the access source, and makes direct accesses to such computers.