Before changing Windows folder sharing, use a trusted private network, identify the host, folder, named users, required read or change permission, and keep a local backup of important shared data. Keep the current state, exact message, and any recent change available so each result can be compared.
2
Choose the supported path
Enable discovery and file sharing only for the appropriate network profile and grant the least permission needed; avoid Everyone write access, SMB 1.0, and insecure guest access.
3
Use a trusted private network
Set the network profile to Private only on a network you trust.
4
Enable discovery and sharing
In Advanced sharing settings, enable Network discovery and File and printer sharing for private networks.
5
Share with named users
Open the folder's sharing options and grant Read or Read/Write only to the accounts that need access.
6
Connect and verify
From the other PC, open Network or enter the host path in File Explorer and authenticate with an authorized host account.
7
Verify the result
Restart both PCs, reconnect from the second PC with an authorized account, and confirm it can perform only the read or write actions you granted.
8
Troubleshoot Windows folder sharing
If the share appears on a public network, remove it and return the network profile to its previous setting. For a managed PC or an exact connection error, record the host path, Windows versions, account used, and first failed step before contacting the administrator or Microsoft Support. Do not enable SMB 1.0 or guest access just to make an old device connect.
Video walkthrough
ⓘ Sources and verification
Checked against official documentation on . Scope: Windows.
Follow the linked first-party guidance if labels differ after a platform or app update.
