Enter Network Credentials [verified] Jun 2026

If the prompt pops up and you just want it gone:

Sometimes Windows refuses to recognize a computer by name (e.g., \\LIVINGROOM-PC ). enter network credentials

net use \\TARGETPC\IPC$ /delete net use \\TARGETPC\SHARE /user:LocalUser Password If the prompt pops up and you just

If the target PC uses a Microsoft account, you typically enter the associated email address and its password. You try to access a folder on your

It is one of the most frustrating features of modern Windows networking. You try to access a folder on your computer, from your other computer, and Windows acts like you are a Russian spy trying to steal the nuclear launch codes.

Most users fail here because they don't know which credentials Windows actually wants. It doesn't want your Microsoft email password. It wants the handshake.

IT pros have memorized three solutions to exorcise this dialog: