How to connect two computers to a local network via Wi-Fi: 3 proven methods

Creating a local network between two computers via Wi-Fi — a task that arises when transferring files, collaborating on documents, or organizing multiplayer games. Many people mistakenly believe that a router is essential for this, but modern versions Windows 10/11 allow you to do without additional equipment. In this article, we will examine three working connection methods: through access point, using ad-hoc networks and through Wi-Fi Direct.

It is important to understand that the data transfer speed in such a network will be lower than with a wired connection (Ethernet), but for most everyday tasks it will be more than enough. For example, for transferring movies in 1080p or synchronization of projects in Visual StudioIf you need to connect computers for gaming, check support. LAN games in a specific title: some titles (for example, Counter-Strike 2 or Minecraft) work great on a local network, while others (like Call of Duty: Warzone) require an internet connection.

Before you begin setup, make sure both computers meet the minimum requirements:

• 🖥️ Operating system: Windows 10 (version 1803+) or Windows 11 (any assembly). On macOS or Linux the algorithm will be different.
• 📶 Wi-Fi adapters: both devices must have working wireless modules (built-in or external) USB adapters).
• 🔒 Administrator rights: You will need rights to change network settings Administrator.
• 🔄 Protocol compatibility: Both adapters must support at least one common standard (802.11n, 802.11ac or 802.11ax).

Method 1: Create an access point on one of the computers

The most universal method is to turn one of the PCs into virtual routerThis method is suitable if you need to not only connect two computers, but also share the Internet connection from one to the other (for example, when the second PC does not have network access). The algorithm works on Windows 10/11 without additional software.

To set up, follow these steps on the computer that will be distributing the network:

1. Open Windows Settings (Win + I) and go to the section Network and Internet → Mobile Hotspot.
2. In the field Sharing an Internet connection Select the connection through which your PC receives the Internet (for example, Ethernet or Wi-Fi, if you are connected to a different network).
3. Click Change next to the field Network name And Network passwordto create unique information. Use a password of at least 8 characters, including both numbers and letters.
4. Activate the switch Allow other devices to use my internet connection.

On the second computer, connect to the created network as you would to a regular Wi-Fi network. This will connect both devices to the same local network. To test the connection, open Command line (Win + R → enter cmd) and run the command:

ping [IP address of the second computer]

You can find out the IP address using the command ipconfig (look for the line IPv4 address in the block Wireless network adapter). If the ping is lost, the network is configured correctly.

Make sure the "Mobile Hotspot" mode is enabled on the sharing PC|Connect to the network from the second computer|Check the ping between devices|Open shared folders (if necessary)

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⚠️ Attention: If an error appears after activating the hotspot Failed to set up mobile hotspot, check if your Wi-Fi adapter supports the mode AP (Access Point)Some budget models (for example, TP-Link TL-WN725N) may not work in this mode. Update the adapter driver via device Manager or the manufacturer's website.

2. Method: Ad-hoc network (direct Wi-Fi connection)

Ad-hoc (from the Latin "for this") is a temporary network created directly between devices without an intermediary (router). This method is suitable for Windows 7/8.1/10, but in Windows 11 Its support is limited. The main advantage is high connection speed, since there are no intermediate nodes.

To create ad-hoc net:

1. Open Command line as administrator (Win + X → Terminal (administrator)).
2. Enter the command to create the network (replace NetworkName And Password to their values):

netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode=allow ssid=NetworkName key=Password keyUsage=persistent

3. Start the network with the command:

netsh wlan start hostednetwork

4. On the second computer, find the created network in the list of available Wi-Fi networks and connect to it.

To stop the network, use the command:

netsh wlan stop hostednetwork

Important: In Windows 11 the command netsh wlan start hostednetwork It may not work due to changes in the Wi-Fi drivers. In this case, use third-party utilities like Virtual Router Plus or Connectify.

3. Method: Wi-Fi Direct (for modern adapters)

Wi-Fi Direct — is a technology that allows devices to connect directly without creating a traditional network. It is supported by most modern adapters (802.11n/ac/ax) and provides high data transfer speeds. This method is ideal for file transfers or media streaming.

To connect computers via Wi-Fi Direct:

1. Make sure both adapters support Wi-Fi DirectYou can check this in Device Manager (adapter properties → tab Additionally).
2. On the first computer, open Settings → Devices → Bluetooth & other devices and turn on detection.
3. On the second computer, in the same section, select Add a device → Wireless display or dock.
4. Find the first computer in the list and confirm the connection. If prompted, enter the PIN displayed on both screens.

Once connected, the computers will be able to exchange files via Conductor (tab General access) or specialized programs like Feem or Send AnywhereThe transmission speed can reach 500–700 Mbps (on adapters) 802.11ac).

⚠️ Attention: Some antiviruses (for example, Kaspersky Internet Security or Avast) can block Wi-Fi Direct connections, considering them potentially dangerous. Disable network protection in your antivirus settings while transferring files.

Setting up shared access to files and folders

Creating a local network is only half the battle. For computers to exchange data, you need to set up public accessHere's how to do it:

1. On the computer from which you want to share, open Conductor and find the folder. Right-click on it → Properties → Access.
2. Click Share and select a user All (Everyone). Set the access level (Reading or Reading and writing).
3. Go to the tab Security and press Change. Add a user All and assign permissions to it.
4. On the second computer, open Net V Conductor (Network → [Name of first computer] → [Shared folder]).

If computers cannot see each other on the network:

• 🔧 Check that it is enabled on both PCs network discovery (Settings → Network & Internet → Sharing options → Private network).
• 🔒 Make sure your firewall (Windows Defender (or third-party) does not block file sharing. Add an exception for ports. 137–139 And 445.
• 📡 Restart your Wi-Fi adapters via device Manager or by team netsh interface set interface"Wi-Fi" disable → enable.

Using a local network for gaming

If you're setting up a network for multiplayer gaming, there are a few things to consider:

• 🎮 Most modern games (for example, Minecraft, Terraria, Stardew Valley) support LAN mode. Launch the game on one computer, create a world/server, and on the second one, select Connect via local network.
• 🔌 For games with dedicated servers (like Counter-Strike 2 or Left 4 Dead 2) you will need to run a local server on one of the PCs. Use the launch parameters -ip [local IP] And -port [port].
• 📡 If the game doesn't see the second player, check that the game's ports are open in the firewall. For example, for Minecraft this is a port 25565, For CS2 — 27015.

To test your connection before playing, use the utility LAN Benchmark or the command:

ping -t [IP of the second computer]

If your ping is consistently high (>100ms), try:

• Disable background downloads (e.g. updates) Steam or Epic Games).
• Switch Wi-Fi adapters to mode 802.11ac (if supported) via Device Manager → Adapter Properties → Advanced.
• Use 5 GHz range instead 2.4 GHz (less interference).

Solutions to common problems

When setting up a local Wi-Fi network, users often encounter common errors. Here are the most common ones and how to fix them:

If none of the methods worked, check:

• 🔌 Compatibility of Wi-Fi adapters: some budget models (for example, Realtek RTL8188EU) do not support ad-hoc or Wi-Fi Direct.
• 📋 Power settings: in Control Panel → Power Options → Change Plan Settings → Advanced Settings disable the option Allow the device to turn off to save power for Wi-Fi adapter.
• 🔄 IP address conflict: if both computers receive an IP automatically (DHCP), but the network does not work, assign static addresses manually (for example, 192.168.1.1 And 192.168.1.2 with a mask 255.255.255.0).

⚠️ Attention: Network protocol and driver settings may vary depending on your Windows version and Wi-Fi adapter model. For example, in Windows 11 24H2 section interface Mobile hotspot was changed, and some commands netsh are no longer supported. For current instructions, please consult Microsoft or the adapter manufacturer's documentation.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about setting up a local network via Wi-Fi

netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode=allow ssid=MyNetwork key=12345678
netsh wlan start hostednetwork