How to Fix Network Computers Not Showing Up in Windows 11/10.
If you've encountered the issue where network computers are not visible in Windows 10 or 11, you're not alone. This problem can prevent you from accessing shared resources on a network, which can be frustrating. Let's explore solutions to resolve this issue effectively.
FIX: Windows 10/11 Does Not Show Network Computers
To address the issue of network computers not appearing, apply the following methods sequentially:
Method 1. Enable Network Discovery
Network Discovery allows your computer to see other devices on the network and be seen by them. If you receive a message stating "Network discovery is turned off," follow these steps to activate it:
1. Click on the message "Network discovery is turned off…Click to change…".
2. Then, click Turn on Network discovery and file sharing.
3. Choose whether to enable network discovery for all public networks or just the private network you are connected to. This setting controls how your computer interacts with other devices on the network.
* Note: If you're unsure of your network type or wish to customize sharing settings, click "Cancel" and refer to Method 2.
4. Once network discovery and file sharing are enabled, you should see other network computers. If not, proceed to the next method.
Method 2. Customize File Sharing Settings in Network and Sharing Center
To ensure visibility of network computers, both "Network Discovery" and "File and Printer Sharing" must be activated. Perform these actions on all network computers:
1. Navigate to Start > Settings > Network and Internet.
2. Under Status, note the Network Profile type (Private or Public) and click Advanced network settings.
* Note: To change the "Network profile" type, click "Properties".
3. Open Advanced Sharing settings by using the command:
control.exe /name Microsoft.NetworkAndSharingCenter /page Advanced
4. Enable the following settings based on your Network Profile type:
- Network discovery: Allows your computer to be discoverable on the network.
- File and printer sharing: Permits others to access shared files or printers on your PC.
* Notes:
1. Ensure "Network Discovery" & "File & Printer Sharing" are enabled on all network PCs for visibility.
2. For added security, enable Password protected sharing under All Networks.
5. After adjusting these settings, restart your PC and check if network computers appear.
Method 3. Start the 'Function Discovery Resource Publication' Service
If network computers remain invisible, ensure the "Function Discovery Resource Publication" service is set correctly. This service publishes your computer's resources for network discovery.
1. Press Windows 
+ R to open Run.
2. Type services.msc and press OK.
3a. Locate and open Function Discovery Resource Publication.
3b. Set Startup type to Automatic (Delayed Start) and Start the service. Click Apply > OK.
* Note: Repeat on all network computers.
4. Open File Explorer, click Network to view network computers.
* Note: If visibility issues persist, restart the Function Discovery Resource Publication service.
Method 4. Ensure Required Services for Network Discovery Are Running
Several services must be operational for network discovery to function properly. Set the 'Startup type' of these services to Automatic (Delayed Start):
- Computer Browser (Browser)
- Function Discovery Provider Host (FDPHost)
- Function Discovery Resource Publication (FDResPub)
- Network Connections (NetMan)
- UPnP Device Host (UPnPHost)
- Peer Name Resolution Protocol (PNRPSvc)
- Peer Networking Grouping (P2PSvc)
- Peer Networking Identity Manager (P2PIMSvc)
- SSDP Discovery (SSDPSRV)
- UPnP Device Host (upnphost)
Method 5. Remove Function Discovery Resource Publication Service's "Trigger Start"
The "Function Discovery Resource Publication" service defaults to "Manual (Trigger Start)", activating only upon specific events, such as network profile changes. This can hinder consistent network visibility.
To remove this trigger:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator and execute:
sc triggerinfo FDResPub delete
- Restart your computer.
Method 6. Enable SMB 1.0 File Sharing Support
Enabling SMB 1.0 File Sharing Support can resolve visibility issues, particularly with older Windows versions. However, be aware that this can expose your system to security risks.
1. Press Windows 
+ R to open Run.
2. Enter control /name Microsoft.ProgramsAndFeatures and press Enter.
3. Click Turn Windows features on or off.
4. Select SMB 1.0/CIFS File Sharing Support and click OK.
5. After installation, restart your PC.
Method 7. Unblock Network Discovery in Security/Firewall Program
If network computers remain hidden, check your third-party security or firewall settings for options that may block Network Discovery. Adjusting these settings can restore visibility.
* Related articles:
- Change network connection firewall setting in ESET Windows home products
- Problem accessing network printers or shared drives and folders caused by a Kaspersky application
Summary
In summary, ensuring network visibility in Windows 10 or 11 involves enabling Network Discovery, adjusting sharing settings, and verifying essential services are running. Additionally, consider security settings and SMB 1.0 support for comprehensive troubleshooting. By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the issue of network computers not appearing.
Did it work for you? If so, by what method?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't I see other computers on my Windows 10/11 network?
A common issue in Windows 10/11 is that networked computers may not appear due to disabled network discovery or file sharing settings. These functionalities need to be enabled for your PC and others to be discoverable on the network.
How can I enable Network Discovery on Windows 10/11?
To enable Network Discovery: Click on 'Network' in File Explorer, acknowledge the network discovery is off message, and turn on Network Discovery and file sharing via the prompt. Choose settings for public or private networks based on your requirements.
What should I do if other computers still don't show up after enabling Network Discovery?
If you've enabled Network Discovery and file sharing but other computers are still not visible, ensure the 'Function Discovery Resource Publication' service is running. Adjust its startup type on all network computers to ensure discoverability.
How do I adjust the 'Function Discovery Resource Publication' service?
Press Windows + R to open the Run command, type 'services.msc', locate 'Function Discovery Resource Publication' in the list, and change its startup type to 'Automatic' to ensure your PC's resources are published and discoverable on the network.
