File sharing between 2 pcs after converting to Win 11 no longer works

Question

We recently upgraded to Windows 11. Unfortunately, while we used to be able to share folders from the Dell desktop to the Dell laptop, since the change, I'm asked for a password. I don't have a password. I've tried several methods to create one, but I am told it isn't correct.

We store most data on the desktop, as it has more storage. I primarily use the laptop, as it's more convenient and I don't have to kick my husband off the desktop where he uses emails and videos, just so I can download documents.

I've tried to add the laptop username to the desktop username, but it says it's already there. I've gone into Windows credentials on the desktop and edited the password anywhere I saw the laptop username, but it still does not let me in.

If I delete the username for the laptop from the desktop, as the laptop is part of the family for Onedrive storage, I'm afraid I will lose all the laptop data on Onedrive.

The laptop is Windows 11 Pro purchased 2023, the desktop is Windows 11 Home, purchased late 2019.

I don't know how get this fixed. I've tried adding new accounts and logging in that way, but that doesn't work either. I've tried finding net user with the command prompt and that doesn't show the laptop username at all, only the desktop. I've tried adding the desktop username at the prompt, but I can't get the syntax right.

I've tried turning off password protection on the desktop but that doesn't seem to work.

The only method that seems to work is to only use onedrive and eliminate hard drives. Is that my only option, other than replacing the desktop? Both computers seem to be working fine individually, they just don't allow direct communication anymore.

Thank you.

***Move from Windows / Windows 11 / Files, folders, and storage***

Answer 1

Hello,

To assist you with your concern, we recommend that you check the current settings of the account using Netplwiz tool. It is a useful tool in Windows for managing user accounts. To check the user profile, follow the steps below:

1. Press the Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog box, type netplwiz or control userpasswords2, and click on OK to open advanced User Accounts.
2. If prompted by UAC, then click on Yes.
   

If you do not want to access the shared file by logging in with a user and password. I recommend that you use Registry Editor to enable Insecure guest login, see the following steps:

1. Open Registry Editor. Go to Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\LanmanWorkstation.

Note: If the key does not exist, you need to create it. Hold down the "Windows" key (right-click), select "New" > "Key" and name the switch "LanmanWorkstation".

2. Hold down the "LanmanWorkstation" key (right-click), select "New" > "DWORD (32-bit) Value" and name it "AllowInsecureGuestAuth". Double-click, set "Value Data" to "1", and press Enter.

Note If you modify the registry incorrectly, you can cause serious problems. So, follow these steps carefully. For additional protection, back up the registry before modifying it. For more information about how to back up and restore the registry, see Backing up and restoring the registry in Windows.

Best Reagrds

Zunhui