Cannot open NAS via Windows 10 File Explorer

Issue: Your home NAS cannot be opened via the Windows 10 File Explorer

Environment:

1> OS Windows 10

2> NAS (random brand and model)

Troubleshooting:

1> The NAS is up and running

2> The NAS is visible thought the home network (The NAS can be pinged via the CMD)

3> FTP connection to the NAS can be established via 3rd party software e.g. FileZilla

Resolution:

1> Open Control Panel.

2> Click Network and Sharing Center.

3> Right-click Ethernet, then select Properties

4> Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4), then click Advanced.

5> Select the radio button for Enable NetBIOS over TCP /IP.

6> Click OK.

Tech explanation:

Windows peer-to-peer networks use the NetBIOS (Network Basic Input/Output System) applications programming interface for File and Printer Sharing. NetBIOS names identify computers on the network. NetBIOS broadcasts locate computers and shared disks and folders on the network and allow them to appear in My Network Places and Network Neighborhood.

NetBIOS is not the same thing as NetBEUI (NetBIOS Extended User Interface):

• NetBIOS is an applications programming interface (API).
• NetBEUI is a transport protocol.
• File and Printer Sharing requires NetBIOS.
• Nothing in Windows networking requires NetBEUI.