The complete error message reads An 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 get The local device name is already in use error?

Here are a few reasons you might be getting The local device name is already in use error in Windows 10:

Misconfigured firewall settings: You need to have File and Printer sharing enabled on the Firewall. Otherwise, there is a good chance that the error might appear. Drive letter not assigned: In case a drive letter is not assigned to the network drive, you might get the error. Lack of storage space: Lack of storage is one of the most common reasons users encounter the error, and in this case, the usual solutions fail to work. So, you will have to verify this first.

How do I fix the device name already in use error?

Before heading to the slightly complex fixes, try these quick ones:

Restart the computer since, in most cases, a simple reboot helped users fix this problem. Make sure you are not using a VPN. If that’s the case, disable it. Verify that there’s sufficient free storage on the shared drive. If not, you will have to clear some files. Check whether you are using the correct user account the drive was mapped to initially.

In case none worked, move to the solutions listed next.

1. Remap the drive

A quick fix and one recommended by Microsoft, when you get The local device name is already in use error 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 whether The local device name is already in use error in Windows 10 is fixed. If not, head to the next solution. SPONSORED

3. Enable File and Printer Sharing

Several users reported issues with network drives, and even The local device name is already in use error in Windows 10 when File and Printer Sharing was disabled in Firewall. If you happen to use a third-party antivirus with 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 the Computer Browser service have often been linked to The local device name is already in use error 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 the mapped network drive is missing in 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.

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