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If you are using a Windows 11 laptop connected via WiFi and cannot find your Ethernet HomeGroup, you are not alone. This is a common issue that can disrupt file sharing and network communication between devices. Fortunately, there are straightforward steps to resolve this problem.

HomeGroup was a popular feature in earlier Windows versions for easy sharing, but in Windows 11, it is replaced by newer sharing options. However, some users still rely on network discovery and file sharing settings to connect devices across Ethernet and WiFi.

This guide will walk you through simple and effective solutions to help your Windows 11 laptop detect your Ethernet HomeGroup or shared network devices correctly. Each step is explained in detail, so even beginners can follow along easily.

Let’s get started with the troubleshooting process to restore your network connectivity and sharing capabilities.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

• Check Network Connection: Ensure both Ethernet and WiFi devices are connected properly to the same network or router.
• Windows Updates: Make sure your Windows 11 laptop is up to date. Updates often fix network-related bugs.
• Network Profile: Verify your network is set to “Private” and not “Public” for sharing to work correctly.
• Firewall Settings: Temporarily disable firewall or security software to check if they block network discovery.

Step 1: Enable Network Discovery and File Sharing

Network Discovery allows your PC to find other devices on the network and vice versa. Without it, your Ethernet HomeGroup or shared folders may not appear.

1. Click on the Start button and open Settings.
2. Navigate to Network & internet > Advanced network settings.
3. Under More settings, select Advanced sharing settings.
4. Find your current network profile (usually “Private”) and make sure Network discovery and File and printer sharing are both turned On.
5. Click Save changes if applicable.

Why this matters: Enabling these settings ensures your laptop actively looks for and shares files with other devices on the network, including those connected via Ethernet.

Step 2: Set Network Profile to Private

Windows treats Private and Public networks differently. For sharing, the network must be Private.

1. Go to Settings > Network & internet.
2. Select your current network connection (WiFi or Ethernet).
3. Under Network profile type, choose Private.

Why this matters: A Private network enables discovery and sharing, while Public networks restrict these functions for security.

Step 3: Restart the Function Discovery Services

Windows uses specific services to find devices on the network. Restarting them can fix detection issues.

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Find the following services in the list:
   • Function Discovery Resource Publication
   • SSDP Discovery
   • UPnP Device Host
3. Right-click each one, select Restart. If they are not running, select Start.
4. Also, ensure their startup type is set to Automatic.

Why this matters: These services help your PC publish and discover network resources, including Ethernet HomeGroup.

Step 4: Check Ethernet and WiFi Network Sharing Settings

Sometimes, Windows may not share files across different network adapters by default.

1. Open Control Panel (search for it in the Start menu).
2. Go to Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings.
3. Right-click your Ethernet adapter and select Properties.
4. Make sure Client for Microsoft Networks and File and Printer Sharing for Microsoft Networks are checked.
5. Repeat the same for your WiFi adapter.

Why this matters: Both network adapters must allow sharing for devices to communicate properly between Ethernet and WiFi.

Step 5: Use IP Address to Access Shared Devices

If the HomeGroup or devices still don’t appear automatically, try accessing them manually using their IP addresses.

1. On the device connected via Ethernet, open Command Prompt by typing cmd in the Start menu.
2. Type ipconfig and press Enter.
3. Note the IPv4 address under the Ethernet adapter section (e.g., 192.168.1.10).
4. On your Windows 11 laptop, press Windows + R, type \192.168.1.10 (replace with the actual IP), and press Enter.

This method allows direct access to shared folders without relying on automatic discovery.

Alternative Method: Use Windows Sharing Wizard or Nearby Sharing

Since HomeGroup is deprecated in Windows 11, consider using Nearby Sharing for file transfers between devices on the same network.

• Go to Settings > System > Nearby sharing.
• Turn on Nearby sharing and choose who can share with you.
• On both devices, share files via the right-click context menu and select Share.

Nearby Sharing is a modern, wireless alternative to HomeGroup for sharing files between WiFi and Ethernet devices.

FAQs

Q: Why can’t I see my Ethernet device on a WiFi laptop?

A: The devices might be on different network profiles, discovery could be disabled, or firewall settings may block connections. Follow the steps above to troubleshoot.

Q: Is HomeGroup still supported in Windows 11?

A: No, Microsoft removed HomeGroup starting with Windows 10 version 1803. Use network discovery, file sharing, or Nearby Sharing instead.

Q: How do I know if my network is Private or Public?

A: In Settings > Network & internet, your active network connection shows the profile type. Private networks allow sharing; Public networks restrict it.

Q: What if I still can’t access shared files?

A: Verify firewall settings, ensure both devices are on the same subnet, and try accessing via IP address as explained above.

Q: Can third-party antivirus block network discovery?

A: Yes, some antivirus or firewall programs can block sharing features. Temporarily disable them to test connectivity.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above solutions solve your issue, consider these final steps:

• Reset Network Settings: Go to Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings > Network reset. This will reinstall network adapters and reset settings.
• Check Router Settings: Ensure your router allows communication between wired and wireless devices (some guest networks isolate devices).
• Consult Official Microsoft Support: Visit the Microsoft Support website for detailed assistance.

Conclusion

Not being able to find your Ethernet HomeGroup on a WiFi-connected Windows 11 laptop is a common but fixable problem. By enabling network discovery, setting your network profile to Private, restarting essential services, and ensuring proper adapter settings, you can restore network sharing functionality.

Additionally, using alternative sharing methods like Nearby Sharing ensures smooth file transfers without relying on deprecated features. Remember to check firewall and antivirus settings as they often interfere with network visibility.

Following this step-by-step guide will help you resolve the issue and improve your home network experience.