Creating a local network between two laptops is a frequently needed procedure when you need to quickly transfer large files, launch a network game, or organize shared access to a printer without using external drives.
Modern operating systems such as Windows 10 and Windows 11, provide built-in tools for establishing such a connection, but standard security settings can sometimes make this process difficult for an inexperienced user.
In this article we will look at proven methods of creation Ad-hoc networks or connections through an existing router, and we'll also pay special attention to properly setting up sharing to ensure your data remains secure.
Selecting the connection type and preparing the equipment
Before you begin configuring the software, you need to determine the physical topology of your future network. There are two main scenarios: connecting both devices to a single central router or creating a direct laptop-to-laptop connection.
The first option, where both laptops are connected to the same Wi-Fi network via a router, is the most stable and simple. In this case, the router takes over the role of DHCP servers, automatically distributing IP addresses and managing traffic between devices.
The second option involves creating a virtual access point on one laptop, to which the second one connects. This method is useful in field settings where there is no central infrastructure, but requires manual configuration of network parameters.
- 📶 Make sure the Wi-Fi adapters on both devices are working properly and the drivers are installed correctly.
- 🔋 Check your battery level, as active wireless data transfer consumes a lot of energy.
- 📡 For a direct connection, the distance between laptops should not exceed 10-15 meters indoors.
It is important to understand that the data transfer speed in a local network directly depends on the Wi-Fi standard that your network cardsIf one laptop only supports 802.11n and the other supports 802.11ac, the connection will operate at the speed of the slower device.
⚠️ Attention: When creating a direct access point (Ad-hoc) on one of the laptops, the Internet on the second device may stop working unless connection sharing (ICS) is configured.
You can use the command line to diagnose the current status of the adapter. Enter the command ipconfig /all and find the section that corresponds to your wireless connection to make sure it is active.
Setting up a network in Windows 10 and 11 using an existing router
If both laptops are already connected to the same Wi-Fi network, the main task is to change the network profile from "Public" to "Private." This is key, as the public profile Windows hides the computer from detection by other devices.
To change the profile, open "Settings," go to "Network & Internet," and select "Wi-Fi." Click on your current network name and change the profile type to "Private." This must be done on both laptops.
After changing the profile, the system will make the device discoverable on the network. Now you can go to Control Panel → Network and Internet → Network and Sharing Center and click Change advanced sharing settings.
Control Panel\Network and Internet\Network and Sharing Center\Advanced sharing settingsIn the window that opens, find the "Private (current profile)" section and enable the following options: "Turn on network discovery" and "Turn on file and printer sharing." It is also recommended to enable the "Let Windows manage HomeGroup connections" option.
- 🔍 Enable the "Turn on network discovery" option to make your computer visible.
- 📁 Enable "File and Printer Sharing" to transfer data.
- 🔐 Optionally, enable password protection if you want to restrict access to authorized users only.
Don't forget to save your changes by clicking the "Save Changes" button at the bottom of the page. Otherwise, all settings will remain inactive, and the computers won't be able to "see" each other.
Organizing a direct laptop-to-laptop connection (Ad-hoc)
When the router is unavailable, one of the laptops should act as the host, creating a wireless network. In Windows 10 and 11, this can be done through the Mobile Hotspot feature or through the command line for more advanced configuration.
Using a Mobile Hotspot is the easiest method. Go to Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile Hotspot. Select your connection source (e.g., Ethernet or another Wi-Fi network) and turn on the switch.
However, to create a pure local network without internet access, it's best to use the command prompt with administrator rights. This allows you to specify a specific network name (SSID) and password.
netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode=allow ssid=MyLocalNet key=Password123
netsh wlan start hostednetwork
After running the command on the second laptop, the list of available networks will appear MyLocalNetConnect to it using the specified password. The physical connection is now established.
| Parameter | Value on the host (creating the network) | Value on the client (connecting) |
|---|---|---|
| Connection type | Creating a new network | Connecting to an existing one |
| IP address | Static (eg 192.168.137.1) | Automatic (DHCP) or static from the same subnet |
| Role | Server / Access Point | Client |
It's important to note that when using the command line method, IP addresses may not be assigned automatically. In this case, you'll need to manually enter static IP addresses in the protocol properties. IPv4.
⚠️ Attention: Antivirus software or the built-in Windows firewall may block incoming connections to created ad-hoc networks. If you experience problems, check your firewall rules.
☑️ Checking the direct connection
Setting up shared access to folders and files
Once the connection is successfully established, you need to grant access to specific resources. The second user's "My Computer" will be empty, even if the network is working perfectly.
Select the folder you want to share. Right-click it, select "Properties," and go to the "Sharing" tab. Click the "Advanced" button.
In the window that opens, check the box "Share this folder." Below, in the "Permissions" section, you can fine-tune permissions: Full Control, Modify, or Read-Only. For a home network, granting "Full Control" permissions to the "Everyone" group is usually sufficient.
There's also a quicker way via the "Sharing" tab in the folder's properties, where you can select a user from the list and click "Share." This method is simpler, but offers less control over access rights.
- 📂 Select the folder to share and open its properties.
- 👥 Add the user "Everyone" to the permissions list.
- ✅ Set the access level: "Read" or "Read and write".
Once configured, the folder will be accessible over the network. To open it on another computer, you can use File Explorer and go to the "Network" section, or enter the path directly into the address bar.
How to open a shared folder by IP address?
In File Explorer, press Win+R or enter \\192.168.1.5 in the address bar (substituting the IP address of the computer you want to connect to). This is the most reliable method if the computer name isn't displayed.
Troubleshooting common connection issues and errors
Even with the correct settings, users often encounter access errors. The most common problem is that computers can see each other, but when attempting to log in, they require a login and password that doesn't work.
This is because Windows requires credentials by default. If both laptops use the same Microsoft login and password or local accounts, sign-in will occur automatically. Otherwise, the system will prompt for authorization.
To get around this, you can disable password protection in the "Advanced sharing settings" section. Find the "All Networks" section and select "Turn off password-protected sharing." This will reduce security but make access easier on your home network.
Another common issue is a workgroup mismatch. While this is less of a concern in modern versions of Windows, make sure both computers are set to the same workgroup in the system properties. This is usually WORKGROUP.
sysdm.cplEnter this command in the Run window (Win+R), go to the Computer Name tab, and check the Workgroup field. If necessary, click Change and standardize the names.
- 🔑 Disable password protection to simplify access on a trusted network.
- 🏷 Check that workgroup names are identical on all devices.
- 🛑 Temporarily disable third-party antivirus software to prevent blocking.
If all else fails, try resetting your network settings. In Windows 10/11, you can do this via Settings → Network & Internet → Advanced network settings → Network reset.
Alternative data transfer methods and Fazit
If setting up a local network seems too complicated or time-consuming, there are alternative file transfer methods that work over the existing connection without requiring complex configuration.
Nearby Sharing in Windows 10 and 11 allows you to transfer files via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Direct by simply selecting a device from the Share menu. It's a built-in equivalent of Apple's AirDrop.
You can also use specialized software, for example, Resilio Sync or Syncthing, which create a P2P network between devices and synchronize folders automatically, bypassing standard Windows restrictions.
In conclusion, connecting two laptops to a local network is a powerful skill that allows for efficient work or entertainment. Whether via a router or a direct connection, properly configuring profiles and permissions is the key to success.
⚠️ Attention: Menu interfaces and item names may vary slightly depending on the Windows build version (Home, Pro, Enterprise) and installed security updates.
Use this knowledge to create fast and reliable connections. Remember that data security should always be a priority, so don't leave open folders accessible on public networks.
Is it possible to connect a laptop and a smartphone to the same network?
Yes, if your smartphone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network, it will also be visible on the local network, and you will be able to transfer files via an FTP server or special applications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why can't computers see each other on the network, even though the Wi-Fi is shared?
Most likely, your network profile is set to "Public." Change it to "Private" in the Wi-Fi settings. Also, check if network discovery is enabled in the Network and Sharing Center.
Is internet required for a local network to work between laptops?
No, internet access is not required. Local area networks operate at the hardware and driver level. However, if you're creating an internet access point, the host must have internet access.
What is the maximum file transfer speed over Wi-Fi?
Speed depends on the Wi-Fi standard (n, ac, ax) and distance. Under ideal conditions, modern Wi-Fi 5 (ac) can deliver real file transfer speeds of up to 50-80 MB/s, comparable to fast USB 2.0.
How to find out the IP address of the second laptop?
On the second laptop, open the command prompt (cmd) and enter the command ipconfigFind the "IPv4 Address" line in the wireless adapter section.