How to change the Windows 8.1 network type from Public to Private

If PhotoSync on your phone or tablet is unable to transfer to your Windows 8.1 computer, it may be due to the network adapter settings in Windows 8.1. If the network is set to behave like a public network, it allows connections to the Internet, but denies connections to other devices on the same network for security reasons.

The following steps show how to find out if your network allows a connection to other devices on the same network and how to change the network settings if this is not the case.

Swipe from the right edge of the screen, and then tap Settings. If you use a mouse, point to the upper right corner, and then drag the mouse pointer down followed by a click on Settings.

Windows 8.1 sidebar
Windows 8.1 sidebar

In the PC settings, click Network to display the network settings.

PC settings
PC settings

On the right select the name of your network under Connections.

Network settings
Network settings

Under the Find devices and content heading, change the switch to On if you want to turn your network into a Private Network. This setting allows other devices on the same network to find your PC and communicate with it.

Extended network settings
Extended network settings

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