Windows 7 Cannot access remote folders or get past "username/login" prompt

It sounds like you are facing network sharing issues between your two Windows 7 x64 machines. The fact that one machine can access shared folders on the other, but the reverse is not true, indicates that there might be some network or sharing settings preventing the access. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve this issue: 1. Check Network Discovery and File Sharing Settings: - Make sure that both machines have Network Discovery and File Sharing enabled. You can find these settings in the Network and Sharing Center in the Control Panel. 2. Check HomeGroup Settings: - Confirm that both machines are part of the same HomeGroup and that the HomeGroup is functioning correctly. You can create a new HomeGroup if needed. 3. Check User Account Permissions: - Ensure that the user account you are using on Machine 1 has the necessary permissions to access shared folders on Machine 2. You may need to check the sharing permissions on the folders themselves. 4. Check Workgroup Settings: - Verify that both machines are in the same workgroup. You can change the workgroup in the System Properties settings. 5. Try Accessing by IP Address: - Instead of using the machine name, try accessing Machine 2 from Machine 1 using its IP address. 6. Enable Password Protected Sharing: - You can try enabling password-protected sharing on both machines. This might help in resolving the username and password dialog box issue. 7. Reset Network Settings: - You can try resetting the network settings on both machines by running the following command in Command Prompt as an administrator: 8. Check for Third-Party Firewall Software: - Even though you mentioned that the firewall was disabled, ensure that there are no third-party firewall software or security suites causing access issues. 9. Check Network Cable and Switch: - Ensure that the network cable connecting the machines to the switch is in good condition. Try using a different port on the switch. 10. Verify the Name Resolution: - Check the DNS settings and ensure that both machines can resolve each other's names correctly. You can also try adding entries to the hosts file for name resolution. By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue with accessing Machine 2 from Machine 1 for shared folders. Let me know if you need further assistance or if you have any other questions!