If you previously shared a folder or drive on your Windows computer and no longer want other users on the network to access it, you can easily stop sharing it.
This process is called Unsharing, and it removes network access to the folder or drive while keeping your files safe on your computer.
This beginner-friendly guide explains how to unshare folders and drives in Windows 10 and Windows 11.
📌 What Does "Unshare" Mean?
When you share a folder or drive:
Other computers on the network can access it
Files can be viewed or transferred (depending on permissions)
When you unshare it:
Network access is removed
Files remain on your PC
Local access is unchanged
🛡️ Why Stop Sharing a Folder?
Common reasons include:
Privacy concerns
Security improvements
Finished file transfer
No longer need network access
Restrict access to personal files
✅ Method 1: Unshare Using File Explorer
Step 1: Locate the Shared Folder
Open:
File Explorer
Navigate to the shared folder or drive.
Step 2: Open Properties
Right-click the folder or drive.
Click:
Properties
Step 3: Open Sharing Tab
Click:
Sharing
You will see the current sharing settings.
Step 4: Advanced Sharing
Click:
Advanced Sharing
Step 5: Disable Sharing
Uncheck:
Share this folder
Then click:
Apply
and:
OK
The folder is now unshared.
✅ Method 2: Remove Access Using "Give Access To"
Some Windows versions provide a quicker option.
Steps:
Right-click shared folder
Select:
Give Access To
Click:
Remove Access
Windows will immediately stop sharing the folder.
✅ Method 3: Stop Sharing a Drive
For drives such as:
D:
E:
External drives
Follow the same steps:
Right-click drive
Properties
Sharing
Advanced Sharing
Uncheck:
Share this folder
Apply changes
🔍 How to Check if a Folder Is Still Shared
Using File Explorer
Shared folders may show a network-sharing indicator.
Using CMD
Open CMD and type:
net share
This command displays all active shared resources on your computer.
❌ Remove Specific Users from Shared Folder
If you don't want to completely stop sharing:
Open:
Advanced Sharing
Click:
Permissions
Remove selected users
This allows more control over access.
🚀 Benefits of Unsharing Folders
Improved privacy
Better security
Reduced network exposure
Easier file management
Prevents unauthorized access
⚠️ Important Tips
Unsharing does not delete files
Local files remain intact
Verify sharing status after changes
Keep sensitive folders private
📝 Final Words
Stopping folder or drive sharing in Windows is a simple but important security step. Whether you shared files temporarily or no longer need network access, unsharing ensures that only local users can access your data.
Always review shared resources regularly to keep your system secure.
For more Windows networking and security guides, visit CodeSardar.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Will unsharing delete my files?
No, unsharing only removes network access.
Q2. Can I share the folder again later?
Yes, you can re-enable sharing anytime.
Q3. How can I see all shared folders?
Use the net share command in CMD.
