Purpose: Knowledge sharing is essential for organizational performance in the public sector, yet it is often hindered by technological barriers. Although prior studies have addressed such barriers conceptually, empirical validation in complex public organizations remains limited. This study aims to identify and validate the dimensions of technological barriers to knowledge sharing in Tehran Municipality, bridging theoretical perspectives and operational realities.

Methodology: This study adopted a mixed-method exploratory–explanatory design. In the first phase, a meta-synthesis of 51 scholarly sources identified 38 preliminary components. In the second phase, these components were empirically tested through a structured questionnaire administered to 368 IT experts in Tehran Municipality. Reliability was confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha (0.88). Exploratory Factor Analysis, based on Principal Component Analysis with Varimax rotation, was applied to validate the structure (KMO = 0.826; Bartlett’s test p < 0.001).

Results: The analysis revealed five major technological barriers explaining more than 70% of the total variance: lack of IT system integration, dependence on legacy systems, insufficient technological investment, limited employee digital competencies, and inadequate technical support.

Discussion: The findings suggest that technological barriers are predominantly structural and systemic rather than merely technical. Fragmented and outdated infrastructures reinforce knowledge silos by confining information within isolated systems and limiting interdepartmental exchange.

Conclusion: This study provides an empirically validated framework for diagnosing technological constraints in large governmental organizations. The findings offer practical guidance for policymakers seeking to modernize infrastructure and strengthen digital competencies to improve knowledge management. Future research may examine this framework in other public sector contexts.