How to Turn On or Off Password Protected Sharing in Windows 11
Password protected sharing in Windows 11 lets you control exactly who can open files, folders, and printers on your local network. When you turn this feature on, anyone connecting from another computer must type a valid username and password for your PC before they can see your shared items.
Turning the setting off lets other people on your home or office network open your shared files without needing an account on your computer. You need administrator access to change this setting in Windows 11.
Navigate to Settings Network & internet Advanced network settings Advanced sharing settings. Expand “All networks” and toggle password-protected sharing On or Off. Alternatively, use Control Panel Network and Sharing Center Change advanced sharing settings
Option 1Using Settings
Password protected sharing Windows 11 can be turned on or off through the Settings app on newer versions of the operating system. Open Settings, go to Network & internet, and select Advanced sharing settings to find the switch. This controls whether network users need a user account and password to view files you share from your computer.
- Open Settings by pressing
Win+I. - Click on Network & internet on the left side, then click on Advanced network settings on the right side.
- Click on Advanced sharing settings on the right side. Open Advanced sharing settings
- Click on All networks to expand it open.
- Turn On (default) or Off password protected sharing for what you want.
- You can now close Settings if you like.
Option 2Using Control Panel
Password protected sharing Windows 11 can also be managed using the classic Control Panel on supported builds of the operating system. Open the Network and Sharing Center, click on advanced sharing settings, and expand the all networks section to change this preference. This method works well if you are using an older version of Windows 11.
- Open Control Panel (icons view), and click on the Network and Sharing Center icon.
- Click on the Change advanced sharing settings link on the left side in Network and Sharing Center.
- Expand open the All networks section.
- Under Public folder sharing, select either Turn on password protected sharing (default) or Turn off password protected sharing for what you want, then click on Save changes.
- You can now close Control Panel if you like.
Summary
Password protected sharing Windows 11 is a network security feature that stops unauthorized people from opening files you share from your PC. When this feature is active, anyone trying to access your shared folders must type in a valid username and password for an account on your computer. You can turn this feature on or off at any time using either the Settings app or the Control Panel .
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Richard
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Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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