win 11 24H2 network credentials

hi retiredoldguy101​ 

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)