Creating a local network between two devices without cables is a task that often arises when you need to quickly exchange large amounts of data, share a printer, or simply play an online game. Modern technology makes this possible using a wireless connection. Wi-Fi, which eliminates the need for unnecessary wiring and allows freedom of movement within the router's range. The setup process may seem complicated at first glance, but it's quite accessible even for a novice user.
In this guide, we will cover in detail all the stages of preparing and configuring the operating system. Windows to work on a single local network. You'll learn how to properly configure sharing settings, open ports in the firewall, and ensure a stable connection between devices. It's important to understand that both computers must be on the same wireless network, meaning they must be connected to the same router.
Before you begin configuring the software, you need to ensure your hardware is ready for use. Make sure both computers have working Wi-Fi adapters installed and the drivers are working correctly. If one of the devices doesn't detect the wireless network, further configuration will be impossible.
⚠️ Attention: For stable operation of a local network via Wi-Fi, both devices must be connected to the same frequency (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz) and use the same encryption standard (usually WPA2/WPA3).
Checking the equipment and basic settings
The first step is to physically test the connection. Both computers should be able to connect successfully to your home or office wireless network. Open the list of available networks and ensure the connection status is active. If you're using a guest network on your router, it may block data exchange between devices, so it's best to use the main network.
Now you need to check the IP addresses of your devices. Each computer on a local network must have a unique address assigned by the router via DHCP. To check, press the following key combination: Win + R, enter cmd and press Enter. In the window that opens, enter the command ipconfigFind the line IPv4 address - it usually looks like 192.168.1.X or 192.168.0.X.
Write down the addresses of both computers; you'll need them for further connection. It's also important that the network profile is set as Private network, and not public, since in the public profile Windows hides the computer from detection by default.
Setting up sharing options in Windows
After checking the physical connection, you need to configure the operating system's logical settings. Windows blocks network discovery by default for security reasons, so we need to change these settings manually. Control Panel, go to the section Network and Internet and select Network and Sharing Center.
On the left side of the window, click on the link Change advanced sharing optionsA list of profiles will open. Make sure you are in the section Private (current profile)Here you need to enable the following options: "Turn on network discovery" and "Turn on file and printer sharing." Also, check the box next to "Allow Windows to manage HomeGroup connections."
At the very bottom of the page, find the section All networksIt is critical to enable the option here. Disable password-protected sharing, if you're on a trusted home network. This will allow you to connect to your computer without entering your account login and password, significantly simplifying the data exchange process.
⚠️ Attention: Disabling password protection is only permissible on home networks. In public places or offices, this could lead to the leakage of confidential data.
☑️ Check network settings
Opening ports in Windows Firewall
A common reason why computers can't communicate with each other is the built-in security system, Windows Firewall. It can block incoming connections, considering them potentially dangerous. To allow communication, you need to add an exception rule. Click Win + R, enter control firewall.cpl and press Enter.
In the window that opens, select the item Allow an app or feature to communicate with Windows Firewall. Click the button Change settings (requires admin rights), and then Allow another appIn the list, find the services related to file and printer sharing and make sure the private network checkboxes are checked next to them.
If the default rules don't help, you can create your own rule. Select Additional options -> Rules for incoming connections -> Create a ruleSelect the "For port" type and specify the protocol. TCP and local ports 139, 445Allow the connection and apply the private network rule.
What ports are used for SMB?
The SMB protocol, used for file sharing in Windows, uses TCP port 445 by default. Older versions may also use ports 137-139. Blocking these ports by an antivirus or router will prevent connection.
Create a shared folder for file sharing
Now that the network is set up, you need to create a location where the files will be stored for sharing. Create a new folder on your disk or select an existing one. Right-click it and select Properties. Go to the tab Access and press the button Advanced settings.
Check the box Share this folderIn the "Share Name" field, you can leave the default name or enter your own. Click the button Permissions and make sure that for the group All or a specific user has rights set to Full access, Change And ReadingWithout this, the second computer will only be able to see files, but not write to them.
There is also a quick way through the tab General access in the folder properties. Select from the drop-down list All, click Add and set the permission level. Once the settings are applied, the folder will be accessible over the network.
| Parameter | Implications for open access | Value for limited access |
|---|---|---|
| Network discovery | Included | Disabled |
| File sharing | On | Disabled |
| Password protection | Disabled | Included |
| Access for the "Everyone" group | Read/Write | Read only |
Connecting to a network resource on a second computer
After setting up the first computer, move on to the second one. Open Conductor (Win + E). In the address bar, enter the IP address of the first computer we found earlier in the format \\192.168.1.X (where X is the address of the first PC). Press Enter.
If all settings are correct, a window will open with available shared folders on the first computer. You can copy files from there or add your own. For ease of use, you can right-click on the folder and select Map a network driveThis will allow the remote folder to be displayed as a local drive (e.g. Z:) in "My Computer".
If the system prompts for a username and password, enter the credentials of the user on the first computer (their Windows account username and password). If you disabled password protection, login should occur automatically.
⚠️ Attention: Operating system interfaces may vary depending on the Windows version (10, 11) and installed updates. The layout of menu items may be changed by the developer.
Troubleshooting and diagnostics
Even if your settings are correct, sometimes the connection may fail. One common cause is Windows services. Click Win + R, enter services.mscFind a service Feature Discovery Provider (Function Discovery Resource Publication) and Discovery Provider HostSet the startup type for them Automatically and run them.
Problems can also be caused by your antivirus software. Third-party antivirus programs often have their own firewall, which blocks the local network. Try temporarily disabling the antivirus software on both computers to test. If the problem resolves, add your network to the antivirus's exceptions.
Another important point is your Wi-Fi adapter drivers. Outdated drivers may not work correctly with discovery protocols. Visit the laptop or adapter manufacturer's website and download the latest driver for your model.
Why can't computers see each other on the "Network"?
This is often due to a delay in updating the NetBIOS list. Computers may be accessible by IP address but not display icons in Network Neighborhood. This is normal for modern versions of Windows.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to connect two computers via Wi-Fi without a router?
Yes, it's possible. Windows has a feature called "Mobile Hotspot" or "Computer-to-Computer" (Ad-Hoc) networking, where one laptop distributes Wi-Fi and the other connects directly. However, the speed and stability of such a connection are usually lower than through a router.
Why is file transfer so slow?
Speed may be limited by the Wi-Fi band (2.4 GHz is slower than 5 GHz), distance from the router, the presence of walls, or bandwidth congestion from other devices. Also, make sure both devices support the 802.11ac or ax standard.
Is it safe to keep sharing enabled all the time?
If you're on a home network with a strong Wi-Fi password and have disabled guest access, the risks are minimal. However, enabling public access in public places (cafes, airports) is strongly discouraged.
How to find out the IP address of a second computer?
On the second computer, open the command prompt (cmd) and enter the command ipconfigYou're interested in the "IPv4 address" line. You can also find the address in the wireless connection properties in the network settings.