Both laptops on to share files and folders?

[mfessler 0]

I have been reading on how to share files/printers between two laptops. The laptop upstairs is the one that will get the most use. One in the basement will be used mostly for my sublimation work using two printers Silhouette Cameo 4 and a coffee mug press. . My question is after I get both laptops talking to each other do both laptops have to be on all the time? Such as if I'm in the basement do I have to have the upstairs laptop on to access different files or folders from it? My thinking is yes, but, hoping for a no.

TYI.

Duane