Setting up a fully-fledged local area network in an apartment or private home is no longer the preserve of IT specialists and has become a necessity for every modern user. The ability to instantly transfer files between computers, display images from a laptop on a TV, or print documents from any device to a single printer significantly improves the ease of using digital technology. Modern wireless technologies allow you to create such an infrastructure without laying unnecessary cables, using only the capabilities of your router.
In this article we will take a detailed look at the creation process LAN (Local Area Network) using a Wi-Fi connection. You'll learn how to properly configure equipment, avoid common security mistakes, and ensure stable data transfer speeds between devices. Proper network configuration is the foundation for a smart home and multimedia entertainment experience.
Before attempting complex operating system configurations, it's important to ensure that the underlying hardware is functioning properly. A local area network is built around a central hub—a router—that distributes traffic and assigns addresses to all connected devices. Without a properly configured router, router further manipulation of shared access will be useless.
Preparing the equipment and basic router setup
The first step is physically connecting the router to the ISP's internet connection and performing its initial setup. You'll need to plug the ISP's cable into the port. WAN (often highlighted in blue) and power the device from the power outlet. After turning it on, wait until the indicators light up. Wi-Fi And Internet, which indicates that the device is ready for operation.
Next, you need to log into the router's administrator web interface. To do this, connect your computer or smartphone to the default wireless network (the SSID and password are listed on the sticker on the bottom of the device) and enter the gateway IP address into the browser. This is most often 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1In the window that opens, enter the administrator login and password, which are also indicated on the case or in the documentation.
⚠️ Important: Be sure to change the default password for your router's web interface to a complex and unique one. Using default passwords makes your network vulnerable to hacking by attackers within range.
In the wireless network settings section (Wireless or In Wi-Fi Settings, set your network name (SSID) and create a strong security key. It's crucial to choose a modern encryption standard. WPA2-PSK or WPA3, as it is an outdated protocol WEP Hacked in minutes. Make sure the frequency range matches your devices: 2.4 GHz provides better coverage, and 5 GHz - higher speed.
Configuring IP addresses and DHCP server
In order for devices to see each other on the network, each of them must be assigned a unique IP address within the same subnet. By default, the built-in DHCP server A router that automatically assigns IP addresses when devices are connected. However, for stable operation of the local network, especially if you plan to set up access to a network storage device or printer, it's better to reserve static IP addresses for key devices.
Go to the LAN settings in the router interface and find the list of connected clients (Client List or DHCP List). The MAC addresses of all devices are displayed here. Remember or write down the MAC addresses of your computer, laptop, and network storage. In the section Address Reservation (Address Reservation) Bind permanent IP addresses to these MAC addresses. For example, a computer could be assigned 192.168.1.100, and the media server - 192.168.1.101.
Using static addresses within a local network eliminates access issues when, after a router reboot, the device receives a new address and paths to shared folders stop working. This is especially important for network printers And NAS systems. If you don't configure static mapping, you'll have to re-detect the device on the network or reconfigure resource paths each time.
Setting up sharing in the Windows operating system
After all devices have successfully connected to Wi-Fi and assigned addresses, you need to configure the software on Windows computers. The system blocks external connections by default for security reasons, so you need to explicitly allow device discovery. Open Control Panel, go to Network and Sharing Center, and then select Change advanced sharing settings.
In the "Private Network" profile (or "Current Profile"), enable the following features: turn on network discovery, turn on file and printer sharing, and allow Windows to manage HomeGroup connections. It's also recommended to disable password-protected sharing if all users on your network are trusted, so you don't have to enter your username and password every time you access a folder.
⚠️ Important: Disabling password protection is only recommended in a fully trusted home environment. If strangers or neighbors can connect to your Wi-Fi, leave password protection enabled and create separate accounts for accessing shared resources.
Now select the folder you want to share. Right-click it, select Properties, and go to the Sharing tab. Click the Advanced button and check the box next to Share this folder. In the Sharing Permissions (Permissions) make sure that the "Everyone" group (Everyone) are allowed to read or modify files, depending on your needs.
☑️ Check Windows settings
Organizing your media library and accessing it from your TV
One of the most popular home network tasks is viewing movies and photos stored on a computer directly on a TV screen. This feature is implemented using technology DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance). Windows has a built-in media server that just needs to be activated. Search for "Media Streaming Settings" in the system search bar and click "Turn on Media Streaming."
Once turned on, your computer will be visible on the network as a media device. On a TV connected to the same Wi-Fi network, launch the "Media" or "Gallery" app. Your computer should appear in the list of sources. Selecting it will give you access to videos, music, and images. For more advanced library management with movie covers and descriptions, we recommend installing a third-party server, such as Plex or Jellyfin.
It is important to consider the bandwidth of the wireless channel when watching heavy high-definition video (4K HDR). If the router operates in the range 2.4 GHz, some stuttering may occur. For comfortable viewing of UHD content, it is strongly recommended to use the range 5 GHz or connect the TV to the router with a cable Ethernet, if possible.
Why can't the TV see the computer?
Most often, the problem lies with the network profile. If Windows considers the network "Public," it blocks discovery. Switch the profile to "Private" in the network settings. Also, make sure your antivirus software isn't blocking incoming connections for the media server service.
Connecting a network printer and scanner
Printer sharing is a classic local network task, allowing you to print documents from any device without physically reconnecting cables. If your printer has a built-in Wi-Fi module, connect it to your network through the device's menu, using the same SSID and password as your other devices. This will make it an independent network device.
If the printer is connected via USB to one of the computers, that computer must be turned on for others to be able to print. Go to "Devices and Printers" on the host computer, right-click the printer, and select "Printer properties." On the "Sharing" tab, check "Share this printer" and give it a meaningful network name.
On other computers on the network, click "Add a Printer." The system should automatically find the network printer. If the automatic search doesn't work, select "The printer I want isn't listed" and manually specify the path using the host computer's IP address and the printer name in the following format: \\192.168.1.100\PrinterName.
Troubleshooting and Speed Chart
Even with proper setup, connection speed or stability issues may still occur. This is often due to noise pollution from neighboring routers or physical obstacles. To check connection quality, use the built-in command line utility. Win + R, enter cmd and run the ping command to the gateway: ping 192.168.1.1 -t. Response time (time) in a local network via Wi-Fi should not exceed 5-10 ms.
File transfer speeds over a local network vary greatly depending on the Wi-Fi standard and signal conditions. Below is a table of approximate speeds you can expect under ideal conditions when transferring files between devices.
| Wi-Fi standard | Range | Theoretical max (Mbps) | Real speed (MB/s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 802.11n | 2.4 GHz | 150 - 300 | 3 - 6 |
| 802.11n | 5 GHz | 300 - 450 | 10 - 15 |
| 802.11ac | 5 GHz | 433 - 867 | 40 - 80 |
| 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) | 5 GHz | 1200+ | 100+ |
⚠️ Note: Please note the difference between Mbps (link speed) and MBps (file copy speed). 1 byte equals 8 bits. Therefore, a router with a 300 Mbps speed will actually copy files at around 30-35 MBps.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why can't computers see each other on the network?
The most common cause is different network profiles. Make sure the network is marked as "Private" and not "Public" on all computers. Also, check that "Network Discovery" is enabled in the advanced sharing settings and that all devices are connected to the same router (SSID).
How to increase file transfer speed over Wi-Fi?
Switch to the 5 GHz band, which is less crowded and faster. Make sure your router and adapters support the standard. 802.11ac or axAlso, try to place devices within direct line of sight of the router or use Wi-Fi repeaters that support mesh technology to expand coverage without losing speed.
Is it safe to share folders?
This is safe within your password-protected home Wi-Fi network. The risk arises if you have a weak Wi-Fi password or if guest access is enabled without isolation. For increased security, use strong passwords for Windows accounts and don't grant "Everyone" access to system folders.
Is it possible to share a printer if the main computer is turned off?
No, if the printer is connected to a computer via USB, that computer must be turned on and connected to the network to function as a print server. If you need independence, consider purchasing a printer with built-in Wi-Fi/Ethernet or a dedicated network print server.