Organizing data exchange between computers without external storage is a challenge every user faces. A local area network (LAN) allows for the instant transfer of gigabytes of data, direct file access, and even online gaming without the need for a global internet connection. This is especially important when the Wi-Fi router's speed significantly exceeds the capabilities of USB flash drives or cloud storage.
To implement this idea, you won't need complex cables or additional equipment if both laptops are already connected to the same wireless network. Modern Windows 10 and Windows 11 operating systems have built-in tools for network discovery, which are often hidden from the average user. Understanding how they work will help avoid common mistakes during setup.
In this article, we'll walk you through the process of establishing a connection step by step, focusing on critical security settings. You'll learn how to grant access to specific folders, see devices in your network, and quickly resolve issues when computers can't see each other. Proper configuration will only take a few minutes, but will save you hours of time in the future.
Hardware and software requirements
Before you begin changing system settings, you need to ensure that the basic technical requirements are met. A fundamental requirement is that both laptops are in the same subnetsThis means that the devices must be connected to the same router or access point, even if one is connected by cable and the other by air.
The operating systems on both ends of the connection must support the standard SMB protocol. This is implemented by default in Windows, but versions earlier than Windows 7 may require security protocol updates. It's also important that both devices have the same network type—Private or Home—as the Public profile blocks visibility.
⚠️ Note: If one laptop is connected to a guest Wi-Fi network and the other to the main network, they will not be able to see each other due to client isolation at the router level.
Connection stability directly depends on the quality of the wireless network signal. For large data transfers, it is recommended to use the 5 GHz, which provides higher throughput than the outdated 2.4 GHz standard. Make sure your wireless adapter drivers are updated to the latest version available on the manufacturer's website.
Basic network setup in Windows
The first step is to change the network profile from public to private. By default, the system considers new connections potentially dangerous and hides the computer from other devices. To enable discovery, open the Start menu and go to Settings → Network & Internet → StatusHere you need to click on the properties of the active connection.
In the window that opens, select the "Private" profile. This automatically enables the necessary services to operate in a trusted environment. Without this step, any subsequent sharing actions will be useless, as the firewall will block incoming requests.
Next, you need to check the network name and workgroup. Although in modern versions of Windows, the default workgroup (WORKGROUP) is suitable for most scenarios, computer names must be unique. If the names are the same, a conflict will occur and the network will not work. You can change the name via Settings → System → About → Rename this PC.
After changing the network profile, it is recommended to restart both laptops. This ensures that all network services restart with the new security settings. Ignoring this step often results in changes not taking effect immediately.
Enable network discovery and sharing
The central element of the configuration is the Network Profiles control panel. To access it in Windows 10 and 11, you can search for "Manage advanced sharing settings" in the system search bar. In the window that opens, you'll see several profiles corresponding to different network types.
Expand the "Private (Current Profile)" section. Here, you need to enable two key options: "Turn on network discovery" and "Turn on file and printer sharing." The first option allows the computer to broadcast its presence on the network, while the second opens ports for data transfer.
At the bottom of the window is the "All Networks" section. It's a good idea to enable the "Disable password protection" option here if you completely trust all devices on your home network. This will simplify the connection, as the system won't prompt you for a login and password every time you access resources.
☑️ Access settings
Be sure to click the "Save Changes" button at the bottom of the page. If you don't, all selected settings will be discarded when you close the window. After saving, the system may prompt you to confirm administrator rights.
Creating and sharing public folders
After configuring your network settings, you need to determine what data will be available to other users. You can share an entire drive or a specific folder. To do this, create a new folder or select an existing one, right-click it, and select "Properties."
Go to the "Access" tab and click "Advanced." Check the "Share this folder" box. Below, in the "Permissions" section, you can fine-tune permissions: allow or deny read, modify, or full access for the "Everyone" group or specific users.
There's also a second level of protection via the "Security" tab. Here, permissions are managed at the NTFS file system level. For a home network, adding a user is usually sufficient. All and give it the rights to "Read and execute" and "List folder contents".
How to hide a folder on the network?
To make a folder accessible but not appear in the general list, add a dollar sign ($) to the end of the folder name, for example, Documents$. You'll need to know the exact name to access it.
The path to a shared folder can now be copied and sent to another user. It looks like this: \\ComputerName\FolderName or \\192.168.1.5\FolderNameUsing an IP address is often more reliable if DNS is not configured on the network.
Mapping a network drive and searching for devices
To avoid entering the network path each time, it's easier to map the remote folder as a separate drive in My Computer. In File Explorer, right-click This PC and select Map Network Drive. Select an available drive letter and enter the path to the resource.
If you don't remember the computer name or path, use the built-in search. In the address bar of File Explorer, enter two backslashes. \\ and press Enter. The system will scan the network and display all available devices. If your computer isn't displayed, try entering its IP address.
To find the IP address of the target laptop, open a command prompt (cmd) and enter the command ipconfigFind the "IPv4 Address" line in the wireless adapter section. This is the address you should use for a direct connection.
| Parameter | Description | Where to find |
|---|---|---|
| IPv4 Address | Unique number in the network | ipconfig or Wi-Fi properties |
| Subnet Mask | Subnet mask | ipconfig |
| Default Gateway | Router address | ipconfig |
| DNS Servers | Name servers | ipconfig |
Persistent disk connectivity ensures that the system will automatically attempt to reconnect to the remote resource upon reboot. This eliminates the need to re-enter file paths.
Diagnosing and troubleshooting common problems
The most common issue is "Windows cannot access...." In 90% of cases, this is due to ports being blocked by a firewall or antivirus. Check that File and Printer Sharing is allowed in Windows Defender Firewall settings.
Another reason could be a disabled service. Click Win + R, enter services.msc and find the Function Discovery Resource Publishing service. Make sure it's running and the startup type is set to Automatic.
⚠️ Note: Windows settings interfaces may vary slightly depending on the update version (21H2, 22H2, etc.). If you can't find the option, use the search within the settings window.
If the laptops are in different IP ranges (for example, 192.168.0.x and 192.168.1.x), they won't see each other without routing configuration. Make sure both devices have received addresses from the same DHCP server (router).
For a thorough diagnosis, use the built-in troubleshooting utility. Right-click the network icon in the system tray and select "Diagnose." The system will automatically check for driver availability, protocol status, and attempt to reset the network stack.
Questions and Answers (FAQ)
Is it possible to set up a network if the laptops have different versions of Windows?
Yes, Windows 10 and Windows 11 interoperate perfectly. Problems may only arise when connecting to very old systems (XP, Vista), as they use the outdated SMBv1 protocol, which is disabled by default in newer operating systems for security reasons.
Is it safe to disable password protection on my home network?
Within your apartment, where you control everyone connected to the Wi-Fi, this is safe and convenient. However, if neighbors or guests can connect to your Wi-Fi, it's best to leave security enabled and create identical accounts and passwords on both laptops.
Why is my Wi-Fi file transfer speed slow?
Speed is limited by the wireless channel's bandwidth. On the 2.4 GHz band, actual speeds rarely exceed 3-5 MB/s. To speed things up, use the 5 GHz band or connect one of the laptops with an Ethernet cable if your router supports gigabit speeds.
How do I disable a shared folder if I no longer need it?
Return to the folder properties, go to the "Sharing" tab, click "Advanced Settings," and uncheck "Share this folder." Once the settings are applied, the folder will only be accessible locally.