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File sharing server disappears randomly from the network

Leo J 0 Reputation points
2023-02-12T06:24:52.8166667+00:00

I have a simple network with no routers or subnets but a small LAN with one file-sharing PC for easy access to files to all the end users. I had all pcs configured with static IPs including the file-sharing PC. I am now transferring this to a domain-level network; for this, I have installed AD, DHCP, DNS, WDS roles, etc. All clients are currently configured with DHCP and they are working ok.

Windows Server roles and current file sharing PC are in hyper-v for easy backups as I have enabled the replication feature in hyper-v for both hyper-VMs.

The issue is that sometimes the file-sharing PC disappears from the network randomly in three ways; a single PC is not able to access; a part of the network is not able to access; the whole network is unable to access; all attempts end in unable to access no network path found. Meanwhile, all network devices can ping the file server not only through the IP of the file server but also by the name of the file server, meaning DNS is working correctly. I have tested all available network tools e.g. DNS, DHCP scanning, rogue DHCP discovery, and duplicate IP scanner; all results in an OK report.

initially, the file server had static IP but as an experiment, I changed it also to DHCP, it worked for a few days without any problem then the same problem started arising. I cannot find the cause of its disappearance from the network and after I restart the file server, windows server, reload/refresh the reverse lookup DNS table, refresh DHCP, and release/renew the file server IP, it starts working. some times it also comes back into the network after 15-20 minutes by itself.

Windows 10
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Windows Server
Windows Server
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Windows Network
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Windows DHCP
Windows DHCP
Windows: A family of Microsoft operating systems that run across personal computers, tablets, laptops, phones, internet of things devices, self-contained mixed reality headsets, large collaboration screens, and other devices.DHCP: Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP). A communications protocol that lets network administrators manage centrally and automate the assignment of Internet Protocol (IP) addresses in an organization's network.
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  1. Limitless Technology 44,666 Reputation points
    2023-02-13T14:24:10.02+00:00

    Hello there,

    Make sure the ports are not being used by other services.

    The following ports are associated with file sharing and server message block (SMB) communications: Microsoft file sharing SMB: User Datagram Protocol (UDP) ports from 135 through 139 and Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) ports from 135 through 139.https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/troubleshoot/windows-client/networking/internet-firewalls-prevent-browsing-file-sharing

    Go to your Adapter Settings on your NIC card and turn OFF Let this computer manage the power of this device (May be worded different) This is pretty much a power saving mode that puts the NIC card to sleep and causes sharing issues.

    Hope this resolves your Query !!

    --If the reply is helpful, please Upvote and Accept it as an answer--

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