Multiple sessions are created when accessing a shared folder in Win7

Running into a problem and I can't seem to find an answer for it. I have a folder on my Windows 7 64 bit Pro computer. I have set it up with a hidden share ($). The sharing is set up properly with Everyone having access. I have 10 additional computers on the network of different OSs (Vista Business, XP Pro and Windows 7 32 Pro). My problem is that after 6 computers actively access the folder, I can't get any additional computers to access it - gives me an error stating I have reached my max limit. I know Windows 7 Pro should allow 20 users, give or take, but just 6! I found out that each computer that accessed the folder was showing as having 3 sessions inComputer Management. I have no idea how to correct this so I can get others to be able to access this folder at the same time.

Any suggestions? TIA

Are the shares "shared folder" showing up three times in those computers? Try unsharing "share with nobody" or remove Everyone from the list, for this folder two times and see if that gets rid of the extra shares.

They are not showing up on the other computers 3 times, just the computer with the folder.

Not sure what you mean by "for this folder two times and see if that gets rid of the extra shares."

I thought you might have shared the folder more than once which tends to create extra shares on other machines which would cause the number of shares to increase when that folder is accessed pushing you past the 20 share limit. That is the only reason I can think of for shares to show up more than once for a single folder or file.