How to Solve Error 0x80070035 “Network Path Not Found” in Windows

So you’re trying to access a shared folder or drive over your network, but Windows throws an angry little surprise: “Error 0x80070035: The network path was not found.” Why is Windows like this? Don’t worry! This might sound like serious tech wizardry, but with a few simple steps, you can make this monster disappear. Let’s break it down together.

TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read)

This error usually happens when your computer can’t find or access another device on your network. It could be a firewall getting in the way, a disabled network feature, or even a typo in the path. Luckily, there are some easy fixes to try. Walk through them one at a time, and you’ll be sharing files like a pro.

What Does Error 0x80070035 Even Mean?

When you try to connect to another computer or shared folder by typing in a network path (like \MyOtherPC\SharedDrive), and the system can’t find it, Windows tosses this error up in your face. The good news? It doesn’t mean your PC is broken. It just means your PC is a little confused about where it’s supposed to be going.

Let’s Fix This Step-by-Step

Here’s a fun and easy guide to squash that 0x80070035 bug. You don’t need to be a tech expert. Just follow along!

1. Check the Path You’re Using

Start simple. Double-check that the path you’ve entered is typed correctly.

  • Make sure slashes are backslashes (\\ not //).
  • Ensure the device name is spelled right.
  • Try using the IP address instead (e.g. \\192.168.1.10\SharedFolder).

Sometimes, Windows is picky. So spelling really matters here.

2. Make Sure the Device is Turned On and Online

This might sound silly, but check if the other device is even turned on and connected to the same network. If it’s asleep, shut down, or using Wi-Fi that’s disconnected, you won’t reach it. Give it a quick nudge.

3. Enable Network Discovery and File Sharing

Let’s make sure your PC is in sharing mode.

  1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet.
  2. Click Advanced network settings.
  3. Select your network (Private, Work, or Public).
  4. Turn ON Network discovery and File and printer sharing.

Note: It’s best to do this on a private or work network, not a public one like coffee shop Wi-Fi.

4. Turn Off Your Firewall Temporarily

Your firewall might be playing gatekeeper a little too aggressively.

  1. Open Control Panel.
  2. Go to System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.
  3. Select Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off from the sidebar.
  4. Turn it off temporarily for both private and public networks.

Now try the shared path again. If it works, your firewall might need some configuration.

[ai-img]windows firewall settings, network, file sharing[/ai-img]

Important: Don’t forget to turn your firewall back on after testing!

5. Make Sure the Device is in the Same Workgroup

Computers need to be on the same team to talk easily!

  1. Right-click This PC or My Computer and pick Properties.
  2. Look at the Computer name, domain, and workgroup settings.
  3. If computers are in different workgroups, update them to match.

After rebooting, try accessing the path again.

6. Use the IP Address Instead of Computer Name

Sometimes DNS (the internet’s address book) is just having a bad day. Try using the IP like this:

  • Press Windows + R, type cmd, and press Enter.
  • Type ping COMPUTERNAME to get its IP address.
  • Use \\IP_ADDRESS\SharedFolder and see if it connects!

7. Map the Network Drive

Let’s take the shortcut route and map it permanently.

  1. Open File Explorer.
  2. Click on This PC.
  3. Click Map network drive in the toolbar above.
  4. Use the path like \\ComputerName\SharedFolder.
  5. Check Reconnect at sign-in if you want that drive to stay mapped.

8. Make Sure SMB 1.0 is Enabled

This is a common culprit in older systems or some networks. SMB is the protocol used for sharing resources.

  1. Open the Control Panel.
  2. Under Programs, click Turn Windows features on or off.
  3. Check the box labeled SMB 1.0/CIFS File Sharing Support.
  4. Click OK and restart your computer.

This little step alone can solve the whole issue!

[ai-img]windows features, smb protocol, file sharing[/ai-img]

9. Check Network Services

Some background services must be running for sharing to work.

  1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
  2. Find and ensure these are running:
    • Function Discovery Provider Host
    • Function Discovery Resource Publication
    • SSDP Discovery
    • UPnP Device Host
  3. Right-click each and click Start if not already running.
  4. Set them to start automatically for good effect!

10. Still No Luck? Try These Bonus Tips

  • Disable antivirus software (just for testing).
  • Update your network drivers via Device Manager.
  • Run the Network Troubleshooter in Windows Settings.
  • Check your router settings to ensure network isolation isn’t turned on.

Wrapping Things Up

This little “network path not found” error may look intimidating, but now you know it’s totally beatable. Most of the time, it’s a minor setting or a misconfigured sharing option. Start from the top, work your way down, and odds are high you’ll find the fix that works for you.

File sharing should be quick and easy, not a digital treasure hunt. So the next time your PC refuses to play nice on the network, you’ll know exactly what to do.

Happy networking!