How to Disable File Sharing on Public Networks in Windows 11

Step by step

1. 30 sec

   Open Network & internet settings

   Click the Start button and select Settings from the pinned applications. Navigate to the Network & internet tab in the left-hand sidebar.

2. 45 sec

   Access Advanced network settings

   Select Advanced network settings from the main menu. Under the Related settings section, click on Advanced sharing settings.

3. 30 sec

   Adjust Public network profile

   Locate the Public networks section. Ensure the toggle for Network discovery is set to Off to prevent your computer from appearing to other devices on the network.

   Note: Disabling discovery is the most effective way to hide your device.
4. 30 sec

   Disable File and printer sharing

   Verify that File and printer sharing is set to Off. If the switch is blue, click it to move it to the Off position.

5. 15 sec

   Verify current network profile

   Return to the Network & internet page. Ensure your active connection is set to Public network rather than Private or Domain, as the settings configured above only apply to the Public profile.

   Note: You can change your network profile type by clicking on Properties while connected to your Wi-Fi network.