File Sharing Not Working on Windows 11: Troubleshooting Guide File sharing problems in Windows 11 can be frustrating, preventing you from accessing files and folders on other devices in your network. This guide provides comprehensive solutions to diagnose and fix common file sharing issues in Windows 11.
1. Basic Checks and Initial Troubleshooting Before diving into more complex solutions, start with these fundamental checks:
Network Discovery and File Sharing Enabled: Ensure that network discovery and file sharing are turned on. These settings control your computer’s visibility on the network and its ability to share files. Firewall Settings: Windows Firewall or third-party firewalls can block file sharing. Verify that the necessary exceptions are in place to allow file sharing traffic. Network Connection: Confirm that all devices are connected to the same network and that the network connection is stable. SMB 1.0/CIFS File Sharing Support: Older devices might require SMB 1.0/CIFS file sharing support. Enable this feature only if necessary, as it has known security vulnerabilities. 1.1 Enabling Network Discovery and File Sharing Open Control Panel. Search for it in the Windows search bar. Go to Network and Sharing Center. Click Change advanced sharing settings on the left pane. Under your current network profile (Private or Guest/Public), select: Turn on network discovery Turn on file and printer sharing Under All Networks, select: Turn off password protected sharing (or enable it if you require password protection). Click Save changes. 1.2 Checking Firewall Settings Open Windows Security. Search for it in the Windows search bar. Click on Firewall & network protection. Click Allow an app through firewall. Click Change settings. Make sure that File and Printer Sharing is checked for your network type (Private/Public). If it’s not listed, you can add it by clicking “Allow another app…” and browsing to C:\Windows\System32 and selecting svchost.exe. Then, in the allowed apps list, enable File and Printer sharing for the appropriate network profile(s). Click OK. 2. Advanced Troubleshooting Steps If the basic checks don’t resolve the issue, try these advanced steps:
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