Unable to Access Shared Folders on Windows 11 after Joining Windows Server 2019 Domain

Question

Had a user migrate to a new Windows 11 laptop from a Windows 10 laptop. The user is in a Windows 2019 Domain.

User joined new laptop to domain and domain administrator confirms laptop is listed as a computer in the domain.

User complained that on the new laptop he was unable to see shared folders on the local network when connected via ethernet, but able to see them when connected remotely via VPN.

Problem: shared folders are not accessible when connected via ethernet.

I confirmed that user had chosen the same "Network & Internet" settings for both machines' Ethernet adapters: "Ip assignment: Automatic (DCHP)" and "DNS server assignment: Automatic (DCHP)"

While configured identically, there's a difference between the Win 11 laptop and the Win 10 laptop.

See the screenshot below of the Win 10 laptop and note:

DNS Suffix Search List is a single line: [DomainName].local

IPv4 Address is 192.168.1.149

Default Gateway is 192.168.1.1

See the screenshot below of the Win 11 machine and note:

DNS Suffix Search List is two lines: [DomainName].local & 192.168.100.10

IPv4 Address is 192.168.100.71

Default Gateway is 192.168.100.1

DHCP Server is 192.168.100.10

When the Win 11 machine is on the local network via ethernet, it does not join the correct gateway, and thus does not receive the proper DHCP server, or DNS Servers, and cannot access shared folders on the network.

When connecting via VPN the Win 11 machine does join the correct gateway, and can access shared folders on the network.

This appears to be a unique issue with Windows 11, and as we migrate to additional Windows 11 machines, I'm hoping it doesn't become a bigger issue.

Can you offer any suggestions?

Answer 1

Hello,

You should connect the new PC to the original network port because they are not in the same physical link.

If you choose auto dhcp and dns, your ip and gateway are assigned by your physical link (router, switch, another network device). If you are using vpn, the network address will be translated, so that is why you can use your shared folder.

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