If the database is only being used on your laptop, then no, you don't need to create a shared folder or turn on Network Discovery and File Sharing. That step is only for a database that will be shared with other users over a network.

You can keep both the front-end and back-end on your laptop. Splitting it can still be worthwhile for organization and future flexibility, but the back-end can simply go in a normal local folder, such as:

C:\MyDatabase\Data\

The sharing settings only become relevant when another computer needs to reach that folder across your network.

Thank you, Richard.

Kenneth that's what I'm here for. Glad to help.