Setting up a local network for file sharing between computers is a basic, yet often challenging, task for users. In the age of cloud storage and instant messaging, direct data transfer over a local network remains the fastest way to transfer gigabytes of information without compression or internet speed limitations. You can set up shared folder access in a few minutes, if you know the correct sequence of actions in the operating system.
The main difficulty lies in Windows security settings, which by default block external connections, even if the devices are on the same Wi-Fi network. Many users encounter a situation where computers can see each other, but access to resources is denied, or the network drive simply doesn't appear in File Explorer. Understanding how it works SMB protocol and firewall settings will help you avoid common mistakes.
In this article, we'll take a detailed look at the process of configuring network settings, from selecting a network profile to setting access rights for specific users. We'll cover both the classic method via the Network and Sharing Center, as well as more modern methods of managing permissions in Windows 10 and 11Proper configuration will ensure stable operation of the media server or convenient collaboration on documents.
Preparing equipment and checking network connection
Before you begin configuring software, you must ensure the physical and logical integrity of the connection. All devices that you plan to exchange data between must be connected to the same router. It doesn't matter whether you're using wireless Wi-Fi connection or an Ethernet cable, the main thing is to be in the same network segment.
IP addressing is a critical parameter. For the local network to function correctly, all computers must receive addresses from the same subnet, which usually happens automatically when DHCP server on the router. If your network uses static IP addresses, make sure the subnet mask and default gateway are configured correctly on all machines.
⚠️ Note: If you're using a guest Wi-Fi network (Guest Network) on your router, devices may be isolated from each other using the "AP Isolation" feature. In this case, the computers won't see each other, even if Windows is configured correctly.
For initial diagnostics, use the built-in command line utility. Launch the command prompt (cmd) and enter the command ipconfigFind the "IPv4 Address" line in the active connection. The first three digits of the address should match for all computers (e.g., 192.168.1.x), confirming that they are on the same subnet.
Setting up a network profile and discovering devices
By default, the Windows operating system classifies new connections as "Public Networks," which has strict security rules. In this mode, your computer is hidden from other devices, and the feature network discovery Disabled. To access the folder, you need to change the profile to "Private Network."
You can do this through the system settings. Go to the Start menu, select Settings (the gear icon), and open Network & Internet. Depending on your OS version, the path may differ slightly, but the logic is the same: find the properties of your current Wi-Fi connection and switch the network profile from Public to "Private".
After changing the profile, the system will automatically apply more lenient firewall rules, allowing incoming connections for discovery services. However, manual activation is sometimes required. Go to "Control Panel" → "Network and Sharing Center" → "Change advanced sharing settings."
In the window that opens, make sure the following options are enabled in the "Private" profile:
- 🔍 Enable network discovery
- 🖥️ Turn on file and printer sharing
- 🏠 Allow Windows to manage HomeGroup connections
Don't forget to save your changes by clicking the "Save Changes" button. Your computer is now visible in the network neighborhood, and you can begin sharing resources.
Step-by-step instructions: opening access to a specific folder
Now that the network infrastructure is ready, you can select the directory you want to make accessible to other users. Find the desired folder in File Explorer, right-click it, and select "Properties." The "Access" tab is the one you're looking for.
There are two options: simple ("Share...") and advanced ("Advanced Settings"). For complete permissions control, we recommend using the advanced method. Click the "Advanced Settings" button and check the "Share this folder" box.
☑️ Folder setup checklist
In the same window, click the "Permissions" button. By default, the "Everyone" group is set to read-only permissions. If you want users to be able to modify files, add a group. "All" or a specific user and check the boxes "Full access", "Change" and "Read".
It's important to understand the difference between "Share" permissions and NTFS permissions (see the "Security" tab). The system enforces the more restrictive of the two sets. Therefore, even if you've granted full access in the settings, if the user doesn't have read permissions in the file system security, access will be denied.
To be on the safe side, add the desired user or group "Everyone" to the "Security" tab of the folder properties by clicking "Edit" → "Add." Enter the username or word All and click "Check names", then confirm the action.
Setting up access rights and local network security
Security is a critical aspect when organizing local data exchange. Granting full access to all users (the "Everyone" group) is convenient for a home network, but is strictly not recommended in an office or public place. In such cases, it is necessary to use password protection.
Return to "Network and Sharing Center" → "Change advanced sharing settings." At the very bottom of the page, find the "All Networks" section. Here you'll find the "Password-protected sharing" option.
⚠️ Important: Enabling password protection requires that an identical user (login and password) be created on the remote computer, or that guest credentials be used if allowed by security policies.
If password protection is enabled, when attempting to connect from another PC, the system will prompt you for the login and password of the account on the computer where the folder is located. This creates a secure barrier to unauthorized access.
Encryption settings are also important for corporate environments. Ensure that packet signing is enabled in the SMB settings. This protects data from interception within the local network, although it may slightly reduce the transfer speed of large files.
What to do if you forgot the password for a shared folder?
If you enabled password protection but don't remember the account information, you'll need to reset the user's password on the server computer via Computer Management → Local Users and Groups. After resetting the password, re-enter the new information when connecting from the client device.
Connecting to a shared folder from another device
After setting up the server, let's move on to the client device. The easiest way to find the shared folder is to open File Explorer and go to the Network section. If network discovery is working correctly, you'll see the name of your primary computer.
However, it is often faster and more reliable to connect directly via IP address. Find out the IP address of the computer where the folder is located (command ipconfig), then on the client PC, click Win + R and enter the address in the format:
\\192.168.1.55Replace the numbers with your server's current IP address. After pressing Enter, a window will open with a list of all available folders on this computer. If the system prompts for credentials, enter the server username and password.
For easy, permanent use, you can map the network folder as a separate drive. To do this, right-click "This PC" in File Explorer and select "Map network drive." Specify the drive letter and path to the folder (e.g., \\192.168.1.55\Documents).
Common problems and solutions
Even with proper configuration, access errors may occur. One of the most common issues is the "Windows cannot access..." error, which is often related to disabled services or ports blocked by an antivirus program.
Check the following services in the snap-in services.mscThey must be running and have the startup type "Automatic":
- 🛠️ Publishing Function Discovery Resources
- 🔍 Function Discovery Provider Host
- 📡 RPC Endpoint Mapper
- 🖥️ Server
It's also worth paying attention to your antivirus software. Third-party firewalls (such as those from Kaspersky, ESET, Avast, and others) may block incoming SMB connections, considering them suspicious. Try temporarily disabling your firewall to check.
| Error | Probable cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| 0x80070035 | The network path was not found. | Check the IP address and enable the "Server" service. |
| 0x80070005 | Access denied | Check the "Security" tab permissions and password |
| 0x800704ec | Blocked by firewall | Change the network profile to "Private" |
| 0x80070043 | Network name not found | DNS or computer name error, please use IP |
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to share a folder with users outside my Wi-Fi network (via the Internet)?
Technically, this is possible through port forwarding on the router, but this extremely unsafeThe SMB protocol is vulnerable to external attacks. For internet access, use a VPN (such as Tailscale or WireGuard) or cloud services.
Why does the folder open but the files cannot be edited?
Most likely, the user only has "Read" permissions. Go to the folder's properties → "Access" tab → "Permissions" and make sure "Modify" or "Full Control" is checked. Also check the "Security" tab.
How do I disable the password prompt when accessing a shared folder?
In the "Network and Sharing Center" under "All Networks," select "Turn off password-protected sharing." This will allow you to log in as a guest without entering a password, but it will reduce security.
Do MAC computers see Windows shared folders?
Yes, they do. In Finder on a Mac, press Cmd+K and enter the address in the format smb://192.168.1.55However, older versions of the SMB protocol (SMBv1), which are sometimes needed for older devices, are disabled by default in macOS for security reasons.