How to fix
Can’t access other Windows computers on home network
on Windows

Hello. Since I upgraded to Windows 11, the two laptops on my home network can see each other and can see all computer folders but they are not permitted access to files despite having set up file sharing. How do I fix this?

Having trouble accessing other Windows computers on your home network? You're not alone; this problem frequently results from how credentials are handled locally on your computer. The use of a Personal Identification Number (PIN) to log into Windows 11 is frequently the cause of issues, especially if you've never logged in to the computer with a regular password.

The issue arises because the PIN is only intended to function for the local device and does not extend its network-wide authentication capabilities. In essence, it lacks the credentials required to connect to other Windows machines on the network. Users who depend on easy access to shared resources or remote desktop capabilities within a home network may find this limitation especially annoying.

This problem has an easy fix for users who are afflicted by it. It's vital to log into the local machine at least once while using the entire password in order to provide smooth communication with and access to other Windows computers on the network. By ensuring that the local device has the necessary network credentials stored, this action makes sure that it can successfully authenticate and connect to other networked Windows computers.

While this might seem like a minor annoyance, it's crucial for users who rely on a PIN's simplicity for their regular login process. They can remove network access barriers and enjoy uninterrupted connectivity and resource sharing within their home network by briefly switching to a password login just once.

In this guide, you will find detailed step-by-step instructions on how to solve this issue. If you experience any other OS problems, you can use a maintenance tool like [d1]. It can fix most system errors, BSODs,[ref en-1] corrupted files, registry[ref en-2] issues, or clear cookies and cache.[ref en-3] Otherwise, follow the step-by-step instructions below.

Fix. Use a Password to Sign-In

• Go to Settings.
• Navigate to Accounts.
• Select 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), then return to Accounts.
• Go back into Sign-in Options.
• You should not see Password located underneath Security Key.
• If you see You're all set up after clicking on it.
• Press the 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. With the changes in place, you should now have restored access to your network resources and shared devices.
• You can re-enable the For improved security, only allow Windows Hello sign-in for Microsoft accounts on this device setting, now that network access is restored and your local machine has the necessary credentials. Simply return to Sign-In Options and toggle the setting back on.