Can't access the other Windows 11 computers on my home network

Anonymous
2021-12-12T13:32:14+00:00

Since upgrading to Windows 11, my ASUS PC and all DELL laptops on my home network can see each other and can see all computer folders.  Unfortunately, they are not permitted access to files despite having set up file sharing. I am always told that my Network Credentials are invalid. I have validated that my usernames and passwords are correct but they are still rejected.

I have established that when I move all of my accounts from "Microsoft Accounts" to "Local Accounts" then everything works perfectly thus proving that : -

  1. The network infrastructure is not the cause of the problem.
  2. Cause of the problem is the creation of a Microsoft Account - what is in this account setup that prevents proper networking?

Obviously, I would prefer to use "Microsoft Accounts" so can anyone please suggest how I might resolve this problem?

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Files, folders, and storage

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Anonymous
2021-12-13T05:04:33+00:00

Hello Stan,

It's probably due to the credentials located on your local machine. If you've set up a PIN for logging into Windows 11 and have never logged into the computer using a password, the PASSWORD is not located on the local machine. Since the PIN only works for the local device, and not across the network, you'll need to sign into the computer 1-time using the full password. It should then work after that...at least until an update wipes it out.

Go to Settings

Accounts

Sign-In Options

Under Additional Settings --> TURN OFF "For improved security, only allow Windows Hello sign-in for Microsoft accounts on this device

Click into some settings (e.g. Apps) and then click back on "Accounts"

Go back into Sign-in Options

You should not see "Password" located underneath "Security Key"

If after clicking on it you see "You're all set up"

Press "Windows Key + L" to lock your computer

Log into the machine using your full Windows 11 password

You should be all set!

Go to your other computer and try out your credentials.

Hope this helps!

P.S. You can then turn on the "Improved security, only allow Windows Hello" again and resume only using a PIN. The PASSWORD will now be stored.

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  1. Anonymous
    2021-12-13T12:20:20+00:00

    Many thanks for your helpful response. Unfortunately it did not work.

    I have now tried advice from numerous people who kindly offred me assistance but nothing has worked. As a last resort I have converted from a Microsoft Account to a Local Account and now everything works perfectly. In essence I have now spent about a week trying evrything that people have kindly suggested but to no avail. It took me no more than ten minutes to move to a Local Account on all PC's on my Home Network - why have Microsoft made Home Networking so incredibly difficult?

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  2. Anonymous
    2021-12-13T12:13:21+00:00

    Hi Greg,

    I have now followed (to the letter) every video & piece of guidance that you kindly offered and, regrettably, nothing solved the problem.  The last resort was always to revert to a Local Account, and you alluded to that at the end of your email.  I have now converted all of my PCs to a Local Account and everything works perfectly again.  I wonder why Microsoft have made it so difficult to set up a home network when using a Microsoft Account?

    Kind regards

    Stan

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  3. Anonymous
    2021-12-13T08:25:24+00:00

    Hi Stan. I'm Greg, 10 years awarded Windows MVP, specializing in Installation, Performance, Troubleshooting and Activation, here to help you.

    Set up file sharing again following this best guide for Windows 11 File Sharing:

    https://www.ubackup.com/windows-11/windows-11-f...

    If any problems troubleshoot file sharing here:

    https://itechhacks.com/fix-windows-cannot-acces...

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JSVY4JwuZNA

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PLIsfR-pV2I

    Fixes for Invalid Credentials:

    https://www.thewindowsclub.com/fix-enter-networ... (Avoid ad links which intrude into editorial copy, especially avoid Restoro, PC Repair Tool and Reimage ads)

    https://wethegeek.com/enter-network-credentials...

    You said the problem doesn't happen in a Local Account. How about if you change the MS Account to a Local Account in Settings > Accounts > Your Info > Sign in with a Local Account Instead. Then if the Local Account fails, create another to test it and if it works, link the MS Account to it in Settings > Accounts > Your Info > Sign in with a MS Account, move your files over from the old account.

    Feel free to ask back any questions. Please report back results for all steps given so I know what else to suggest if necessary.

    ______________________________________________

    Standard Disclaimer: There are links to non-Microsoft websites. The pages appear to be providing accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the sites that may advertise products frequently classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the sites before you decide to download and install it.

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  4. Anonymous
    2021-12-12T18:30:07+00:00

    Hello Elise,

    I am most grateful for your attemts to solve my problem.

    Kindest regards & Happy Xmas,

    Stan

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