Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsSome links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
SMB compression can reduce the amount of data sent during a file transfer, but it does not guarantee a faster copy. It is built into Windows 11 and Windows Server 2022 or later, and works when the SMB client and server negotiate compatible support. Start with a one-copy test using Robocopy’s /COMPRESS option; if it helps, you can request compression for a mapped drive, a share, or all SMB traffic.
What SMB compression does—and what it doesn’t
SMB compression works on file data as it travels between an SMB client and server. The source remains an ordinary file, and the destination receives an ordinary file; there is no archive to extract.
- SMB compression aims to reduce network traffic during transfer.
- NTFS or ReFS compression changes how data is stored on a volume. It does not, by itself, mean SMB traffic is compressed.
- ZIP or 7z archives are compressed files you create before transferring.
- NAS or storage-array compression may save capacity on the device without reducing the bytes sent over SMB.
Compression trades CPU work for fewer network bytes. It is most promising when the network is the bottleneck and the files are compressible. It may offer little benefit—or add overhead—when the network is fast and uncongested, storage or CPU is limiting throughput, or the files are already compressed.
Microsoft describes SMB compression as an SMB 3.1.1 feature supported by Windows 11 and Windows Server 2022 or later. Both ends of a transfer matter: Windows support on the client does not guarantee that a NAS, Linux/Samba server, or older Windows server will negotiate compression.
#1 Best Overall
- 1.1 GHz (boost up to 2.4GHz) Intel Celeron N5030 Quad-Core
Check support and choose a scope
Use the narrowest setting that fits your need. A one-copy test is easiest to reverse. A mapped-drive setting suits applications using that drive. Share-level settings apply to a particular share; client- or server-wide settings affect broader traffic and should be tested before deployment.
Compression controls for Windows 11 and Windows Server 2022 were added in the updates Microsoft identifies as KB5016691 (build 22000.918) and KB5016693 (build 20348.946), respectively. These are historical update milestones, not a recommendation to run an old build. Keep Windows patched. The listed changes take effect without a reboot.
To check the OS and build:
Get-ComputerInfo | Select-Object WindowsProductName, WindowsVersion, OsBuildNumberSystem-wide configuration generally requires an elevated PowerShell session. Share changes require permission to administer that share. A transfer can still proceed without compression if the peer or negotiated SMB connection does not support it.
Test one transfer with Robocopy
This is the least disruptive way to find out whether compression helps your actual workload:
robocopy C:Source \ServerShare TestFile.bin /COMPRESSFor example:
robocopy C:TestSource \fs1.corp.contoso.comsales TestFile.bin /COMPRESSRun the same copy again without /COMPRESS, keeping the source file, destination, and other options unchanged. Delete the destination copy between runs so you are measuring a fresh transfer, not a skip or a cache effect. Record elapsed time, network utilization, and CPU utilization; repeat the comparison rather than relying on a single run. Choose a file representative of the real workload.
For a directory tree, Robocopy’s /E includes subdirectories, including empty ones:
robocopy C:Source \ServerShare *.* /E /COMPRESSMicrosoft also documents /COMPRESS for XCOPY:
xcopy C:Source* \ServerShare* /COMPRESSCompression requests an attempt; it does not guarantee that the payload will shrink. A virtual test on the same Hyper-V host can also mislead: a very fast virtual network may conceal savings that matter on a slower production link. See Microsoft’s SMB compression guidance for its test recommendations.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Rank #2
- 256 GB SSD of storage.
- Multitasking is easy with 16GB of RAM
- Equipped with a blazing fast Core i5 2.00 GHz processor.
Request compression for a mapped drive
For File Explorer and applications that access a share through a mapped drive, create the mapping with compression requested:
New-SmbMapping -LocalPath "Z:" `
-RemotePath "\fs1.corp.contoso.comsales" `
-CompressNetworkTraffic $trueOr use Command Prompt:
NET USE Z: \fs1.corp.contoso.comsales /REQUESTCOMPRESSION:YESIf the drive was already connected, remove and recreate that mapping while testing:
net use Z: /delete
net use Z: \fs1.corp.contoso.comsales /REQUESTCOMPRESSION:YESRemoving a drive disconnects its current session. Avoid net use * /delete on a working system unless you intend to disconnect every mapped network connection. Also check how the application connects: a program using a separate UNC path may not use the mapping-specific request.
Request compression for one share
On the file server, create a share with compression requested:
Recommended Free Tools
New-SmbShare -Name "Sales" -Path "C:Sales" -CompressData $trueFor an existing share:
Set-SmbShare -Name "Sales" -CompressData $trueCheck the share setting:
Get-SmbShare -Name "Sales" | Select-Object Name, Path, CompressDataA share setting is a request, not a promise that every transfer will be compressed. The connecting client and negotiated SMB connection still matter.
Request compression for all client or server SMB traffic
These settings have a wider impact than a copy, mapping, or share setting. Test first, especially on busy servers, because compression can raise CPU use across multiple workloads.
On an SMB client, use elevated PowerShell to request compression for outbound SMB connections:
Rank #3
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
Set-SmbClientConfiguration -RequestCompression $true
Get-SmbClientConfiguration | Select-Object RequestCompression, DisableCompressionOn an SMB server, request compression for inbound transfers:
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Set-SmbServerConfiguration -RequestCompression $true
Get-SmbServerConfiguration | Select-Object RequestCompression, DisableCompressionGroup Policy provides corresponding controls:
- Client: Computer Configuration > Policies > Administrative Templates > Network > Lanman Workstation > Use SMB Compression by Default.
- Server: Computer Configuration > Policies > Administrative Templates > Network > Lanman Server > Request traffic compression for all shares.
After changing policy, apply it with gpupdate /force. Client requests, server requests, and share settings are different controls; changing one does not mean the others have changed. A domain policy may also reapply a setting after a local test.
Verify the connection and measure the result
Use this to see which server, share, and SMB dialect are in use, and whether the connection is signed or encrypted:
Get-SmbConnection | Select-Object ServerName, ShareName, Dialect, NumOpens, Signed, EncryptedThis output does not prove that compression is active. For compression activity, Microsoft documents these Performance Monitor counters:
SMB Server SharesCompressed Requests/sec
SMB Server SharesCompressed Responses/secNonzero values indicate compressed requests or responses are occurring, but do not establish that a transfer finished faster. Compare elapsed time, CPU use, and network utilization for the same representative copy with and without compression. There is no dependable universal percentage improvement.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchPC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Which files and networks are good candidates?
Text and data with repeated patterns—such as logs, CSV, XML, JSON, source code, raw data, uncompressed disk images, and some virtual-disk files—may compress well. Results vary by content; a file extension alone cannot establish the outcome.
Already-compressed formats such as ZIP, 7z, RAR, MP4, MKV, MP3, and FLAC are unlikely to gain much. JPEG images are also already compressed. Microsoft’s SMB transfer troubleshooting guidance notes that such formats are poor candidates for additional compression. Little compression does not automatically mean a slower transfer; the outcome depends on CPU, storage, network conditions, encryption, and workload.
Rank #4
- EFFORTLESS EVERYDAY PERFORMANCE: Powered by Intel Celeron N4020 processor and Windows 11 Home system, delivering reliable, low-power efficiency for daily tasks like document editing, email, online classes, and web browsing
- 15.6-INCH FULL HD DISPLAY: Enjoy immersive visuals on the 15.6" FHD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with micro-edge bezels. Delivers clear details and comfortable viewing for long study sessions, working on spreadsheets, and video playback
- RESPONSIVE MULTITASKING & STORAGE: Built with 4GB LPDDR4 RAM and 128GB eMMC storage for smooth daily essential use. Expand your storage by up to 1TB via the integrated TF card slot to easily store movies, photos, and working files
- ADVANCED CONNECTIVITY: Outfitted with 2x Full-Featured Type-C ports for data transfer, fast charging, and dual-monitor output, alongside 2x USB 3.2 Gen1 ports and a 3.5mm audio jack for complete peripheral compatibility
- LIGHTWEIGHT & SILENT OPERATION: Slim and portable for effortless travel or commuting. Features a 1MP HD webcam for remote meetings, 38Wh battery with 45W Type-C fast charging, and a fanless silent design for peaceful work environments.
Compression is most likely to help when the link—perhaps Wi-Fi, a WAN, VPN, or congested network—is limiting throughput and the endpoints have spare CPU. It may reduce network utilization even when total copy time barely changes. On an uncongested high-speed LAN with fast storage, CPU work can outweigh the network savings.
Compatibility, algorithms, and important limits
Windows automatically negotiates an available algorithm when both endpoints support SMB compression. Microsoft lists XPRESS, XPRESS Huffman, LZNT1, and PATTERN_V1 for Windows 11 and Windows Server 2022 or later. LZ4 is available with Windows 11 version 24H2 or later and Windows Server 2025. See the SMB feature matrix for version details.
SMB compression supports SMB signing, SMB encryption, Multichannel, and SMB over QUIC, but not SMB Direct over RDMA. Compression and SMB over QUIC are separate features: QUIC provides an encrypted transport for SMB; it does not turn compression on by itself.
Microsoft documents historical sampling behavior in the original Windows 11 and Windows Server 2022 releases: they tested the first 500 MiB and stopped trying for the rest of the file if less than 100 MiB compressed successfully. After KB5016691 and KB5016693, sampling was disabled by default and SMB attempted compression across the file when requested. Treat those thresholds as historical behavior, not the expected default on an updated system.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Troubleshooting
The command or parameter is missing
Check the OS version and build, install current updates, and confirm the cmdlet syntax on the system you are configuring:
Get-Command Set-SmbClientConfiguration -Syntax
Get-Command Set-SmbServerConfiguration -Syntax
Get-Command Set-SmbShare -SyntaxRemember that a machine acting only as an SMB client has client settings; a file server has server and share settings. Microsoft’s update milestones for the relevant compression controls are KB5016691 and KB5016693.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
A configured request does not improve speed
Check, in order: whether the file is already compressed; whether the network is actually the bottleneck; whether storage or CPU is limiting the copy; whether CPU became saturated; whether the destination was deleted between tests; and whether the copy used the server, share, and path you intended. Also confirm the connection’s SMB dialect and whether the environment uses RDMA. A lower network byte count does not necessarily mean a shorter transfer.
Best Value
- 【Efficient Performance】 Powered by Intel Core i3 processor (2 cores, 4 threads, up to 3.4GHz) with 12GB RAM and 256GB SSD. Handles multitasking, office software, online classes, and HD video streaming smoothly. Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Backlit Keyboard & Complete Package】Comes with a cool backlit keyboard. Comes with awebcam, dual stereo speakers (8Ω/1.0W each), DC charger, and user manual – ready for late-night studying, online classes, video conferencing, and daily productivity
- 【Vibrant Display】 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with 16:9 aspect ratio delivers crisp images and vivid colors – perfect for studying, watching lectures, or entertainment. Thin-bezel design maximizes viewing area
- 【Fast Connectivity & Expansion】 Equipped with WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2 for stable, high-speed wireless. Features 3 x USB 3.0, HDMI 2.1, Type-C (supports PD3.0 fast charging), and a TF card slot expandable up to 2TB – easily connect external monitors, mice, drives, or expand storage for all your files
- 【Long Battery Life & Portable】 Built-in 11.55V 5000mAh/57.75Wh high-capacity battery delivers approximately 7 hours of mixed-use battery life – enough for a full day of classes and assignments. Lightweight at just 1.63kg (3.6 lbs) and 19.5mm thin, plus a compact packing size – easily slips into a backpack for campus, library, or coffee shop
The mapping behaves as before
Disconnect and recreate the mapping with the compression request. Then confirm that File Explorer or the application is using that drive rather than opening an independent UNC connection.
Compression seems blocked
Inspect the client and server controls:
Get-SmbClientConfiguration | Select-Object RequestCompression, DisableCompression
Get-SmbServerConfiguration | Select-Object RequestCompression, DisableCompressionCheck whether DisableCompression is enabled and whether Group Policy is enforcing a different setting. If the other endpoint does not support compatible compression, a request cannot make it negotiate the feature.
The server is a NAS or non-Windows SMB system
Ordinary SMB support does not establish support for Microsoft’s SMB compression negotiation or controls. Verify the specific vendor’s documentation rather than assuming compatibility. If the endpoint does not support the feature, alternatives include archiving files before transfer or using a transfer method with its own compression. Storage-side compression may save space but does not necessarily reduce SMB network traffic.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Disable or roll back a change
To stop a system-wide request, set the corresponding request setting to false:
Set-SmbClientConfiguration -RequestCompression $false
Set-SmbServerConfiguration -RequestCompression $falseTo disable compression explicitly on a client or server, use the applicable control:
Set-SmbClientConfiguration -DisableCompression $true
Set-SmbServerConfiguration -DisableCompression $trueTo undo a share setting:
Set-SmbShare -Name "Sales" -CompressData $falseTo remove a mapping-specific request, delete and recreate the drive without /REQUESTCOMPRESSION:YES:
net use Z: /delete
net use Z: \fs1.corp.contoso.comsalesCheck both request and disable settings when diagnosing unexpected behavior; the disable control can block a request.
If SMB compression is not the right fix
If the bottleneck is not compressible network traffic, choose a remedy that targets it. Robocopy options such as restartable or multithreaded copying can suit particular jobs, but should be tested against the application and storage workload. SMB Multichannel may help when multiple network paths are available; SMB Direct is a separate high-performance option for supported RDMA environments, where SMB compression is not supported. For secure remote SMB transport, SMB over QUIC is distinct from compression. Storage-side compression addresses capacity, not necessarily transfer volume.
SMB compression is built into supported Windows versions; you do not need to buy a separate product to enable it. For a Windows or NAS platform decision, evaluate the broader requirements—such as storage, permissions, snapshots, backup, availability, and networking—rather than treating SMB compression alone as a reason to change platforms.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
