How to Forget Samba (SMB) Credentials in Windows 11/10

In a world where we juggle files across multiple devices, it’s pretty standard to share stuff between computers. Samba (SMB) network shares are a popular way to do this. But sometimes, you might want to wipe out those saved login details on your Windows 11/10 computer. Maybe you’re tidying up for security reasons or fixing a glitch. This guide is all about showing you how to do that. Plus, there’s a trick using Command Prompt for those who like to keep it old school.

Also see: How to Update Network Drive Login Credentials in Windows 11

How to Forget Samba (SMB) Credentials in Windows 11 10

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Method 1: Forget Samba (SMB) credentials using Windows Credential Manager

Let’s start with the easiest route: using Windows Credential Manager. It’s a handy tool built into your computer that helps manage passwords and stuff for network sharing. Here’s how you use it for both Windows 11 and 10:

Hit Win + S to open up the search bar.
Type Credential Manager and click on the result to launch it.
Look for the Windows Credentials tab and click it.
Find the Samba or SMB share credentials you want to ditch and click the little arrow next to them to see more details.
Hit the Remove button, and say “yes” when asked if you’re sure.

This method makes sure those credentials are gone, stopping your computer from logging into those network shares automatically in the future.

Pro tip: How to Share Folder in Windows 11/10 Without Password

Method 2: Remove Samba (SMB) credentials using Command Prompt

For the tech-savvy, or if you’re into scripting, Command Prompt is another way to clear those Samba or SMB login details. Here’s the breakdown for Windows 11/10 users:

Press Win + X and pick Windows Terminal (Admin). If you’re on an older version of Windows 10, it might say Command Prompt (Admin) instead.
To see what’s currently connected, type net use and hit Enter. You’ll see a list of network connections, including those for SMB or Samba.
Spot the network share you want to forget. It’ll look something like \\ServerName\ShareName.
To remove it, do one of the following based on how it’s listed:
- If it’s by server and share name, punch in
```
net use \\ServerName\ShareName /delete
```
  and press Enter. Make sure to swap \\ServerName\ShareName with the real deal.
- If it’s tied to a drive letter, use
```
net use M: /delete
```
  , replacing M: with your drive letter.
If asked to confirm, type Y and hit Enter.
To make sure it’s gone, type net use again and check that it’s not listed.

There you go, you’ve manually cut off the connection and wiped the credentials clean. Great for those who prefer command lines or need to automate the process.

Linked issue: The Specified Network Password is Not Correct (Fix)

Common issues and troubleshooting tips

Even with these steps, you might bump into some issues. Here’s a quick guide to solve them:

Issue 1: Credentials stick around after removal

Symptoms: You’ve removed the credentials, but you can still hop onto the network share without re-entering them.

Solution: Try turning your computer off and on again. Windows might be holding onto those credentials temporarily, and a restart can help clear them out.

Related resource: Disable Network Level Authentication in Windows 11 or 10

Issue 2: Command Prompt says “no go”

Symptoms: You get an error like “System error 85 has occurred” or “The network connection could not be found” when trying to delete credentials with net use.

Net Use Delete credentials The network connection could not be found

Solution: Double-check you’re typing the network share’s name right and make sure you’re doing this as an admin.

Issue 3: Credential Manager doesn’t show the network share

Symptoms: You can’t find the network share you want to forget in the Credential Manager under Windows Credentials.

Solution: It might be hiding under another category, like “Generic Credentials,” or linked to a specific app. Have a thorough look through all categories.

Issue 4: “Access Denied” after credential removal

Symptoms: You’ve removed the credentials alright, but now you can’t reconnect to the network share and keep getting “Access Denied.”

Solution: You’ll likely need to reconnect using new login details. Just head over to the network share as usual, and when asked, type in the new username and password.

Summary

Handling network shares often means managing those login details that let you in. Whether you’re dealing with Samba servers or sticking to Windows SMB shares, knowing how to clear those saved credentials is handy. We’ve covered how to do this using both the Credential Manager and Command Prompt, plus shared some tips for when things don’t go as planned.