Computer available but not showing up in network folder

Question

We have a small office network with 18 computers and we need to reach each others folders every day, the problem is not every pc is showing up in the network folder but they are still available if I type the adress I can find it but it's really inconvenient. We are using Win10 and 11, everything is working, network discovery is on, file sharing is on, we're connected via ethernet cable, so everything is working only there is this small inconvenience on every computer.

Answer 1

Hello,

Here are a few more targeted troubleshooting steps:

1. Confirm that NetBIOS over TCP/IP is enabled on the network adapter properties for all computers. This protocol is often used for network browsing.
2. Ensure that the Peer Networking Grouping and Function Discovery Provider Host services are running on all systems. These services are involved in device discovery and listing in Network view.
3. Though SMBv2 and later versions are preferred, ensure SMBv1 is installed and enabled if required for compatibility reasons. However, note that Microsoft recommends disabling SMBv1 due to security concerns.
4. Some power-saving features can interfere with network visibility. Check power management settings for the network adapters to prevent them from entering a low-power state when idle.

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Answer 2

Ensure "Network discovery" and "Turn on file and printer sharing" are enabled under "Private network."

Make sure all computers are part of the same workgroup. Go to System > About and check the "Workgroup" name.

Check your firewall settings and ensure file and printer sharing is allowed.

Answer 3

I was trying to solve this problem myself for ages. I found that the problem is related to the way the computers in the network vote for the master browser. If a windows 10/11 machine becomes master browser, then forget it, there is no way file explorer will work correctly showing all computers in the network. I for myself solved it as follows: My router allows for a usb disk to be shared over the network using SAMBA. I used my routers feature and defined a share. You then have to shutdown all maschines and wait for a couple of minutes, until the routers SAMBA server becomes MASTER BROWSER. The network will again function normally. If you happen to switch off the router and a windows mascine becomes master, you will have to repeat the procedure again.