Overview

 This guide explains how to configure Softdrive virtual PCs (vPCs) using a workgroup instead of a domain. It includes steps for initial setup, enabling network sharing, and configuring shared drives between machines. 

Applies To

• Softdrive Cloud PCs
• Windows 10
• Windows 11
• Workgroup environments

Prerequisites

•  Windows 10 or Windows 11 installed 
•  Local administrator credentials available 

Procedure

1.  Connect to the Softdrive vPC 
   •  Create the computer in the Softdrive dashboard 
   •  Connect using the Softdrive launcher 
     
     
     
2.  Complete initial Windows configuration 
   •  Select region, keyboard layout, and additional preferences 
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
   •  Accept the license agreement 
     
     
     
     
   •  Set the desired computer name 
     
     
3.  Create a local administrator account 
   •  Select "Set up for work or school" 
     
     
     
     
   •  Choose "Sign-in Options" 
     
     
     
     
   •  Select "Domain joined instead" to create a local account 
     
     
     
     
   •  Enter username, password, and security questions 
     
     
     
     
     
     
   •  Accept privacy settings and allow Windows updates to complete 
     
     
     
     
     
     
4.  Join the computer to a workgroup 
   •  Press Win + R → type sysdm.cpl → press Enter 
   •  Go to the Computer Name tab → click Change 
   •  Select Workgroup and enter a name (example: OFFICENET) 
   •  Restart the computer when prompted
      
5.  Configure network sharing 
   •  Open Control Panel → Network and Sharing Center 
   •  Click Change advanced sharing settings 
   •  Enable network discovery and file and printer sharing 
   •  Optionally disable password-protected sharing if needed
      
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
6.  Create identical users on each computer 
   •  Create the same username and password on each machine 
   •  Settings → Accounts → Other users → Add account 
     
     
7.  Test connectivity 
   •  Open File Explorer → Network 
   •  Verify that other machines are visible 
     
     
   • 
     
     
8.  Configure shared drive (optional) 
   •  Create a shared folder on the main machine (for example in C:\) 
     
     
     
     
9.  Map the shared drive on client machines (optional) 
   •  Open File Explorer → This PC → select Map network drive 
     
     

Expected Result

 Softdrive vPCs are successfully configured in a workgroup, allowing file sharing and connectivity between machines. 

Troubleshooting

• Ensure all machines use the same workgroup name
• Verify network discovery is enabled
• Check firewall settings if machines are not visible
• If issues persist, contact support@softdrive.co