Microsoft Windows Error Code 0xC0000118: How to Fix It

Easy 15-30 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
0xC0000118
Brand
Microsoft Windows
Product Type
operating_system
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Fix Time
15-30 minutes
Error code 0xC0000118 indicates that Windows has denied access to a network share. This usually happens due to incorrect permissions, firewall settings, or credential mismatches. Follow these steps to regain access.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 0xC0000118

  1. Check Share Permissions

  2. Check NTFS Permissions

  3. Run Network Troubleshooter

  4. Reset Network Credentials

  5. Disable Firewall Temporarily

    Disabling firewall reduces security; re-enable immediately after testing.

  6. Enable Network Discovery

  7. Check SMB Protocol Version

    Enabling SMB1 is insecure; only enable if absolutely necessary and in a trusted network.

  8. Use IP Address Instead of Hostname

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When to Call a Professional

If none of these steps work, the issue may be with domain policies or hardware. Contact your network administrator or IT support.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error 0xC0000118 mean?
It means Windows cannot access a network share due to denied permissions or authentication issues.
Can a firewall cause error 0xC0000118?
Yes, a firewall blocking SMB ports (445, 139) can cause this error. Temporarily disable the firewall to test.
Does error 0xC0000118 affect all users?
It usually affects specific users or groups with insufficient permissions on the share.
How do I fix error 0xC0000118 on Windows 10?
Follow the steps above: check permissions, run troubleshooter, reset credentials, and ensure network discovery is on.
Is error 0xC0000118 the same as 0x80070035?
No, 0x80070035 is 'Network path not found'. 0xC0000118 is specifically an access denied error.

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