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Fix: The Local Device Name is Already in Use in Windows 10
Check verified solutions that helped others
5 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
Some usersutilize drive mappingto access remotely hosted disk drives. While ideally, the process should be seamless, several reported gettingThe local device name is already in use errorin Windows 10.
The complete error message readsAn error occurred while reconnecting to Microsoft Windows Network: The local device name is already in use.So let’s find out all about it and the solutions that worked for others.
Why do I getThe local device name is already in useerror?
Here are a few reasons you might be gettingThe local device name is already in useerror in Windows 10:
How do I fix the device name already in use error?
Before heading to the slightly complex fixes, try these quick ones:
In case none worked, move to the solutions listed next.
1. Remap the drive
A quick fix and one recommended byMicrosoft, when you getThe local device name is already in useerror in Windows 10 is to remap the drive. Often issues come up with the previous remapping, and simply doing it again should get things running.
2. Assign a drive letter
Once done, verify whetherThe local device name is already in useerror in Windows 10 is fixed. If not, head to the next solution.
3. Enable File and Printer Sharing
Several users reported issues with network drives, and evenThe local device name is already in useerror in Windows 10 whenFile and Printer Sharingwas disabled in Firewall.
If you happen to use athird-party antiviruswith a built-in firewall, make sure to verify the same there as well.
4. Modify the Registry
5. Restart the Computer Browser service
Issues with theComputer Browserservice have often been linked toThe local device name is already in useerror in Windows 10, and restarting it should do the trick.
One of the solutions here should have helped you fix the error. And while you are at it, also find out what to do if themapped network drive is missingin Windows.
If you know of another method of fixing this issue, let us and everyone else know by leaving us a message in the comments section below.
More about the topics:Fix network issues,windows 10 fix
Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
Matthew is a freelancer who has produced a variety of articles on various topics related to technology. His main focus is the Windows OS and all the things surrounding it.
He is passionate about the tech world, always staying up-to-date with the latest and greatest. With an analytical view, he likes problem-solving, focusing on errors and their causes.
In his free time, he likes to read and write about history and tries to always develop new skills.
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Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
He is passionate about everything surrounding Microsoft’s OS, focusing on troubleshooting guides & tips for everyday problems.
