The desktop editions of Windows 10 and 11 impose a strict limit on the number of simultaneous network connections, allowing only 20 incoming connections. This restriction can cause issues when using these operating systems as file or print servers, leading users to encounter an error message indicating that no more connections can be made due to the maximum connection limit being reached.
According to the Windows 11 End-User License Agreement (EULA), users are explicitly restricted to 20 device connections for specific software features like file and print services, internet sharing, and telephony services. This policy seems designed to encourage the adoption of Windows Server editions for higher connection capabilities.
To check the current number of incoming session limits, users can utilize the command:
net config serverBy default, Windows Server supports an astounding maximum of 16777216 connections. Moreover, Windows has an idle session timeout setting, disconnecting sessions inactive for over 15 minutes. Users can adjust this timeout to a shorter duration if needed by executing:
net config server /autodisconnect:5If the maximum connections are exceeded, users can manually disconnect sessions by listing active connections using:
net sessionTo disconnect specific session connections, commands such as net session \<hostname> /d can be employed. Additionally, to reset all active connections, one can use:
net session /deleteFor automation, a PowerShell script can be implemented to manage connections. This script can be scheduled to run at regular intervals, automatically disconnecting idle sessions when a set connection threshold is met.
While earlier versions of Windows allowed for patches to bypass connection limits, no such solutions are available for Windows 10 and 11, and using any unauthorized modification could violate the licensing agreement.