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Network File Sharing Is Not Working - Illustrated
(I wish illustrated better, but I hope these are sufficient.)
I have three networked computers, named Dell-NB, Dell-380, Dell-660s. All three were upgraded to W10 from W7. None used a HomeGroup as W7 nor do they now as W10. All indicate “This computer can’t connect to a homegroup” under “change homegroup settings”. All are identified properly and indicate they are part of Workgroup as:
Each contains a folder named Program Files – Portable on a partition designated P:. Under W7 I had full access to all three of the folders from any of the computers. Under W10, that has fallen apart.
The puzzle is this: If I am using the Dell-380 or Dell-660s, I can get to the folder on the Dell-NB and to any file in the folder. But from any of the computers (except the host for each folder, of course) I cannot gain access to the folder/files on Dell-380 or Dell-660s. This is especially confusing since I have set all controls, permissions, etc. on all three computers to be the same (?but maybe not?).
Network permissions are what I would call “wide open” with network discovery on, file and printer sharing on, password requirements off, etc. Regardless of how the “HomeGroup connections” option is set, nothing changes. (Note: I do not use passwords on any of the computers for any purpose. )
My only firewall/anti-virus is Windows Defender.
If I try to get to them using a command file or a program I get an error code 5, Access is Denied. From File Explorer I get:
This is from Dell-380 trying to gain access to the folder on Dell-660s. Note how it had no problem with access to the folder on Dell-NB.
Sharing on each looks exactly like this:
You can also see in the lower left that the folders in question on all three computers are visible on the network.
Is it possible this is a “feature” (bug) in W10?
I really can’t help but think I am missing something subtle, but can’t work my way through it. Any ideas where to look?