Windows 7: Password Protected Sharing - Turn On or Off in Windows 7

   Information

Password protected sharing is a more secure method of sharing files and folders on a network, and it is enabled by default. If password protected sharing is turned on, people on your network will not be able to access shared folders on other computers on the network, including the Public folders (except on a homegroup), unless they have a user name with password created on the computer that has the shared folders stored on it. They will be prompted to type a user name and password when accessing the shared folders.

This tutorial will show you how to turn Password protected sharing on or off in Windows 7.

You must be logged in as an administrator to be able to do the steps in this tutorial.

   Note

If you have password protected sharing turned on, then using the same username and password on each computer on the network that you want to share with will make it easier and faster to access.

1. Open the Control Panel (icons view), and click on the Network and Sharing Center icon.

2. In the left pane, click on the Change advanced sharing settings link. (see screenshot below)

3. Click on the to expand the network profile (type) that you want to turn password protected sharing on or off for. (see screenshot below)
NOTE: Normally this would be your current profile.

4. To Turn On Password Protected Sharing
NOTE: This is the default setting.

A) Select (dot) Turn on password protected sharing. (see screenshot below step 6)

B) Go to step 6.

5. To Turn Off Password Protected Sharing

A) Select (dot) Turn off password protected sharing. (see screenshot below step 6)

6. Click on the Save Changes button. (see screenshot below)

7. If prompted by UAC, then click on Yes.

8. When finished, you can close the Network and Sharing Center.