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Networking

How to Turn On Network Discovery

Allow a Windows PC to find and be found by devices on a trusted network.

Updated September 2, 2026Difficulty: EasyTime: 6 minApplies to: Windows, Windows 10, Windows 11

Follow the steps in order and stop if the screen or target does not match what is described. Use administrator access only when the task requires it.

Check the network

Enable discovery only on a network you trust.

Set the Private profile

Open Settings > Network & internet, open the active connection's properties, and choose Private.

Open sharing settings

Go to Advanced network settings > Advanced sharing settings.

Enable discovery

Under Private networks, turn on Network discovery. Enable File and printer sharing only if this PC should provide those services.

Verify

Open File Explorer > Network and allow time for devices to appear.