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Setup Homegroup in Windows: Full Guide

Guide 10-20739 · Updated · Step by step

HomeGroup was a Windows feature that let you share files and printers on a home network with a password, but it was removed in Windows 10 version 1803 and later. If you’re on an older Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 PC, you can still set it up; on modern Windows 10/11, you’ll need to use the built-in sharing features instead. This guide covers both paths, explains how HomeGroup worked, and shows you what to use now.

What Was HomeGroup?

HomeGroup debuted in Windows 7 as a simpler alternative to the older “workgroup” sharing model. Instead of creating user accounts for every computer, you joined a group with a single password. Libraries (Documents, Music, Pictures, Videos) and printers could be shared with a few clicks. The feature was designed for small home networks where all PCs run Windows.

Microsoft removed HomeGroup in Windows 10 version 1803 (April 2018 update). Existing HomeGroups stopped working after that update. Windows 11 never had it. The underlying networking technology (SMB, or Server Message Block) remains, but the easy password-based group is gone.

How HomeGroup Worked

When you created a HomeGroup, Windows generated a random password (you could change it). Other Windows PCs on the same network could join by entering that password. Once joined, you chose which libraries to share—read-only or read/write. Media devices like smart TVs could also stream content if you enabled “stream to devices.”

Key technical details:

  • HomeGroup used the HomeGroup Listener and HomeGroup Provider services.
  • It relied on IPv6 link-local addresses and the Peer Name Resolution Protocol (PNRP) for discovery.
  • Sharing was based on the Public or Private network profile—HomeGroup only worked on Private networks.
  • The password was stored in Windows Credential Manager.

How to Set Up HomeGroup on Windows 7 / 8.1

If you still run Windows 7 or 8.1 (both are out of support, so be cautious), here are the exact steps:

  1. Open Control Panel → Network and Sharing Center.
  2. Click HomeGroup.
  3. Click Create a homegroup.
  4. Choose which libraries and printers to share (e.g., Documents, Music, Pictures, Videos, Printers).
  5. Note the auto-generated password, then click Finish.

To join on another PC:

  1. Open Control Panel → Network and Sharing Center → HomeGroup.
  2. Click Join now.
  3. Select the libraries you want to share.
  4. Enter the HomeGroup password when prompted.

You can change the password later via Change the password in the HomeGroup control panel. Remember that all PCs must be on the same network and set to Private network profile.

What to Use Instead on Windows 10 / 11

Modern Windows uses standard SMB file sharing and the “Nearby Sharing” feature. Here’s how to share a folder on Windows 10 or 11:

  1. Right-click the folder you want to share → Properties.
  2. Go to the Sharing tab → click Share.
  3. Add the user or group (e.g., “Everyone” or a specific Microsoft account).
  4. Set permission level (Read or Read/Write) → click Share.
  5. Note the network path (e.g., \DESKTOP-ABC\SharedFolder).

To access it from another PC, open File Explorer, click Network in the left sidebar, and double-click the computer. You may need to enter the Microsoft account credentials or a local username/password.

For quick transfer between your own devices, use Nearby Sharing (Windows 10/11): right-click a file → Share → select a nearby device. Both devices must have Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enabled and be signed in.

Common Problems and Fixes

Even when HomeGroup existed, users hit issues. Here are the most common and how to solve them:

  • PCs don’t see each other: Ensure all are on the same network and set to Private (not Public). Go to Settings → Network & Internet → Wi-Fi → click your connection → set to Private.
  • HomeGroup password forgotten: On the PC that created it, open Control Panel → HomeGroup → View or print the homegroup password.
  • HomeGroup grayed out: This happened when the network was set to Public or when the service was disabled. Check the HomeGroup Listener and Provider services are running (services.msc).
  • Can’t join because the group is gone: On Windows 10 1803+, the feature is removed. You cannot re-create it; use folder sharing instead.

HomeGroup vs. Modern Sharing: Which Is Better?

HomeGroup was simpler for beginners—one password, no user accounts. Modern sharing is more flexible and secure, but it requires a bit more setup. Here’s a comparison:

  • Ease of use: HomeGroup (when it existed) was easier; modern sharing requires per-folder permissions.
  • Security: Modern SMB sharing uses your Windows credentials, which is generally more secure than a single shared password.
  • Compatibility: Modern sharing works with Windows 7 and 8.1 too (they can access shared folders), but HomeGroup was Windows-only.
  • Printers: Modern Windows can share printers via Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners → select printer → Printer properties → Sharing tab.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still use HomeGroup on Windows 10?

No. HomeGroup was removed in Windows 10 version 1803. If you have an older version, it might still work, but Microsoft recommends updating for security. You can use folder sharing instead.

How do I share files between two Windows 10/11 PCs without HomeGroup?

Use the folder sharing method described above. Both PCs must be on the same network and set to Private. You can also use OneDrive, a USB drive, or Nearby Sharing for quick transfers.

Is HomeGroup safe to use on Windows 7?

Windows 7 is no longer supported, so it’s not safe to use for internet-facing tasks. If you must use it offline, HomeGroup itself is fine, but the OS has unpatched vulnerabilities. Upgrade to a supported OS.

Why did Microsoft remove HomeGroup?

Microsoft said the feature was underused and that modern cloud services and simpler sharing options made it redundant. They recommend OneDrive and built-in sharing for collaboration.

Can I share a printer without HomeGroup?

Yes. On the host PC, go to Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners → select your printer → Printer properties → Sharing tab → check “Share this printer.” Then on the other PC, add the printer via “Add a printer” and browse the network.

What is the HomeGroup password for my network?

If you’re on an old Windows 7/8.1 PC, the password is stored in Control Panel → HomeGroup → “View or print the homegroup password.” On modern Windows, there is no HomeGroup password; you use your Windows account credentials to access shared folders.

Related

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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