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How to Fix HomeGroup Not Working in Windows 11: Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

HomeGroup was a popular feature in previous Windows versions that allowed easy file and printer sharing between computers on the same network. However, if you are using Windows 11, you might face issues with HomeGroup not working as expected.

This guide will help you troubleshoot common problems step-by-step in the simplest way possible. Each step is explained carefully so that even beginners can follow along without confusion.

We will start from basic checks and move towards more advanced fixes, ensuring you understand why each step matters. By the end, you should be able to resolve most HomeGroup-related issues on your Windows 11 PC.

Let’s get started and make your network sharing smooth again.

Quick Note: Basic Checks Before Troubleshooting

  • Windows 11 and HomeGroup: Microsoft removed the HomeGroup feature starting with Windows 10 version 1803. If you are using Windows 11, HomeGroup is no longer supported natively. Instead, Windows 11 uses other sharing methods like Nearby Sharing or traditional network sharing.
  • Check Your Windows Version: Confirm your Windows version by going to Settings > System > About. If HomeGroup is essential for your setup, consider using older Windows versions or alternative sharing methods.
  • Network Type: Ensure your network is set to Private and not Public. Private networks allow sharing between devices.
  • Connected Devices: Verify that all computers you want to share with are connected to the same network.

Step 1: Verify Network Settings and Sharing Options

Before diving into complex fixes, make sure your network settings allow sharing.

  1. Open Settings by pressing Win + I.
  2. Navigate to Network & Internet > Status.
  3. Click on Properties under your current network connection.
  4. Set the network profile to Private. This setting enables device discovery and sharing.
  5. Go back to Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced network settings > Advanced sharing settings.
  6. Under Private network, turn on Network discovery and File and printer sharing.

Why is this important? If the network is set to public or sharing options are disabled, Windows will block any sharing attempts between devices.

Step 2: Use the New File Sharing Method in Windows 11

Since HomeGroup is deprecated, you can share files using built-in Windows 11 features.

  1. Open File Explorer and right-click the folder you want to share.
  2. Select Show more options (or press Shift + F10).
  3. Click Give access to > Specific people.
  4. In the dialog box, select the users or devices to share with, or choose Everyone if you want to share broadly.
  5. Click Share and then Done.

This method replaces the old HomeGroup sharing system and works well for most users.

Step 3: Check Essential Services Are Running

Certain Windows services must be running for sharing to work properly.

  1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
  2. Look for the following services:
    • Function Discovery Provider Host
    • Function Discovery Resource Publication
    • SSDP Discovery
    • UPnP Device Host
  3. For each service, right-click and select Properties.
  4. Set the Startup type to Automatic and click Start if the service is not running.
  5. Click Apply and then OK.

Why does this help? These services help your PC to discover and communicate with other devices on the network.

Step 4: Disable Third-Party Firewalls or Antivirus Temporarily

Sometimes, security software blocks sharing functionality.

  1. Temporarily disable any third-party firewall or antivirus software you have installed.
  2. Test if you can now access shared folders or devices.
  3. If sharing works, add exceptions for Windows file sharing in your security software.

Important: Remember to re-enable your security software after testing to keep your PC protected.

Step 5: Reset Network Settings

If sharing still doesn’t work, resetting network settings can help fix underlying issues.

  1. Open Settings > Network & Internet.
  2. Scroll down and click on Advanced network settings.
  3. Click on Network reset.
  4. Click Reset now and confirm.
  5. Your PC will restart and network settings will return to default.

This step clears any misconfigurations or corrupted network files that might prevent sharing.

Step 6: Use Command Prompt to Flush DNS and Reset Network

Running a few commands can clear cached network data and reset network components.

  1. Press Win + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
ipconfig /flushdns
netsh int ip reset
netsh winsock reset

Restart your computer after running these commands.

This helps resolve network conflicts or corrupt settings that interfere with sharing.

FAQs About HomeGroup and File Sharing in Windows 11

Is HomeGroup still available in Windows 11?

No, HomeGroup was removed starting with Windows 10 version 1803 and is not available in Windows 11. Microsoft now recommends using other sharing methods.

How do I share files between Windows 11 PCs without HomeGroup?

You can right-click any folder, select Give access to > Specific people, and share files using traditional network sharing. Alternatively, use Nearby Sharing for quick transfers.

Why can’t I see other PCs on my network?

Make sure all devices are on the same private network, network discovery is enabled, and necessary services are running. Also, check firewalls and antivirus settings.

Can I still use HomeGroup in Windows 11 by any workaround?

No official workaround exists since the feature is removed. Using traditional sharing or third-party software is recommended instead.

What is Nearby Sharing in Windows 11?

Nearby Sharing allows you to share files quickly with nearby Windows devices using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. It is a good alternative to HomeGroup for smaller file transfers.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and still cannot share files or printers between your Windows 11 devices, consider the following:

  • Use Microsoft’s official support resources: Visit the Microsoft Support website for up-to-date guides and help.
  • Try third-party file-sharing software: Apps like ShareIt, Resilio Sync, or cloud services like OneDrive can be alternatives.
  • Check your router settings: Some routers block local network sharing; verify that no isolation settings are enabled.
  • Consider using traditional SMB sharing: Enable SMB 1.0/CIFS File Sharing Support in Windows Features if compatible with your network devices.

Conclusion

While HomeGroup is no longer available in Windows 11, you can still share files and printers using built-in sharing options and network discovery features. Start by ensuring your network is private and sharing settings are enabled.

Check essential services and temporarily disable firewalls if needed. Resetting network settings and running command prompt fixes often resolve stubborn problems. If necessary, explore alternatives like Nearby Sharing or third-party software.

By following these basic and detailed troubleshooting steps, you can restore smooth sharing between your Windows 11 devices without relying on HomeGroup.

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