Forum Discussion
win 11 24H2 network credentials
I would like to connect my home machine and my laptop so i can share files. The PC is connected to router by ethernet and the laptop is using WIFI. I receive the notification that i have to enter network credentials to accomplish this. I have posed the question about credentials on the web (chrome) only to find out that all the information provided doesn't apply to my version of Win 11 (outdated). Is it possible to connect the two? would save me time as i am now using a thumb drive or One Drive to transfer files. i am sensing the network credential issue only applies to WIFI from what I have read so far. I am self-taught in computer operations, only learning what I need to solve an issue. I would appreciate any help on this issue.
Thanks,
John
1 Reply
Yes — you can share files between your PC and laptop on Windows 11 24H2, even if one is wired and the other is Wi-Fi. The “network credentials” prompt is normal, and it usually comes from Windows asking for a username and password of the account on the PC you’re trying to access. Here’s how to solve it:
Use the same Microsoft account or local account
If both devices use the same Microsoft account, you can often just enter your Microsoft email/password when prompted.
If using local accounts, make sure you know the username and password of the account on the PC hosting the shared folder.
Enable File and Printer Sharing
Open Control Panel → Network and Sharing Center → Advanced sharing settings.
Under Private network:
Turn on Network discovery
Turn on File and printer sharing
Save changes.
Use Password-Protected Sharing
Go to Control Panel → Network and Sharing Center → Advanced sharing settings → All networks
You can either:
Keep password-protected sharing ON → then you must enter the username/password of the host PC
Turn it OFF → no credentials required, but less secure (good for trusted home network)
Share the folder
Right-click the folder you want to share → Properties → Sharing → Advanced Sharing
Check Share this folder, set permissions, and click OK
Note the network path (\\PCName\FolderName)
Access from the other device
Open File Explorer → type the network path (\\PCName\FolderName)
Enter credentials if prompted (use the account from the PC hosting the folder)
