net use Z: \\192.168.1.100\ShareName /user:Username * To delete connection:
net use Z: \\192.168.1.100\ShareName /user:COMPUTERNAME\Username Password123 To prompt for password (more secure): windows 11 smb username/password
For most home users connecting to a NAS, use: NAS-NAME\username or just username if the NAS is in the same workgroup. net use Z: \\192
For PC-to-PC sharing, create matching local user accounts or use to store credentials permanently. Once you understand the username format rules and
net use Z: /delete | Feature | Status in Windows 11 | |---------|----------------------| | SMB2 / SMB3 | ✅ Default | | SMB1 | ❌ Disabled by default | | Guest authentication | ❌ Disabled by default | | Credential caching | ✅ Yes (via Credential Manager) | | Username format flexibility | ✅ Workgroup, domain, Microsoft account | | Command-line support | ✅ net use , PowerShell New-SmbMapping | | Encryption support | ✅ Optional (enable on share) | Final Verdict The SMB username/password system in Windows 11 is secure by default but can be frustrating for home users moving from older Windows versions (where guest access worked). Once you understand the username format rules and how to manage stored credentials, it works reliably.