Creating a local connection between two laptops often becomes necessary when you need to quickly transfer a large amount of data, organize a joint game, or simply access the resources of another device without using external storage.
In modern operating systems, this process is significantly simplified, but it requires proper configuration of security settings and network profiles so that devices can “see” each other and allow the exchange of information.
There are several ways to accomplish this task: from creating a direct wireless computer-to-computer connection (Ad-hoc mode) to setting up a shared access point through which both devices can work, which is especially important in the absence of an active internet router.
Choosing the optimal connection method
Before you begin setting up, it's important to determine which specific use case is right for you, as this will determine the choice of technical implementation.
If both laptops are within the coverage area of one router, the task comes down to correctly setting up the network profile, making it private or home, which automatically opens the necessary ports for local exchange.
In a situation where there is no router, one of the laptops can take on the role of a server by creating a software access point, to which the second one can connect as if it were a regular WiFi signal.
The most universal and modern solution for Windows 10 and 11 is to use the built-in Mobile Hotspot feature or set up a direct wireless network, which allows you to create a full-fledged LAN segment.
- 📡 Infrastructure mode - both devices are connected to the same router.
- 💻 Ad-Hoc mode - direct laptop-to-laptop connection without intermediate equipment.
- 📱 Mobile hotspot - one laptop distributes WiFi, the second one connects to it.
⚠️ Attention: When using Ad-Hoc mode (direct connection), the data transfer rate may be lower than when working through a router, since one of the network adapters operates in access point emulation mode.
Network settings interfaces may differ slightly depending on the version of the installed operating system and wireless adapter drivers.
It is recommended to update the WiFi module drivers on both devices to the latest version from the manufacturer's website in advance to avoid connection instability.
Preparing the operating system and network adapters
The foundation for a successful connection is the correct operation of network equipment and the absence of software conflicts at the driver level.
The first step is to make sure that the wireless module is enabled on both laptops and that discovery mode is activated.
In the Windows operating system, it is critical to ensure that the network profile is set to "Private Network" because in "Public" mode the system blocks incoming connections for security purposes.
To check the status, go to Settings → Network and Internet → Wi-Fi and make sure that under your network name there is a mark "Private".
If you plan to use a direct connection without a router, make sure that IP addresses are assigned automatically or manually configured on the same subnet.
A common mistake is having antivirus software with a strict firewall, which can block local connections, considering them a potential threat.
☑️ Pre-merge check
Creating a network using the Mobile Hotspot feature
This method is the easiest for Windows 10 and 11 users, allowing you to turn one laptop into a full-fledged WiFi hotspot without having to purchase any additional hardware.
On the first laptop that will be “distributing” the network, you need to open the “Start” menu and go to the section Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile Hotspot.
In the window that opens, select the connection source (usually Ethernet or Wi-Fi, if the second device also needs internet) and set a network name and a strong password.
After you turn on the "Mobile hotspot" switch, the operating system will create a virtual adapter that will broadcast the signal.
On the second laptop, start a search for available wireless networks, find the name you created and connect by entering the previously set password.
After a successful connection, both devices will be in the same local network, which will allow you to organize file sharing or online game.
What to do if the second laptop does not see the hotspot?
Make sure power saving is enabled in the adapter properties on the sharing device, and that the frequency band (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz) is supported by the second laptop. Older models may not recognize the 5 GHz network.
If the internet on the second device doesn't work, check the sharing settings in the properties of the primary connection on the first laptop.
Setting up shared access to files and folders
Once a physical connection is established, the operating system may deny access to resources by default, requiring manual configuration of access rights.
To get started, you need to enable network discovery by going to Control Panel → Network and Sharing Center → Change advanced sharing settings.
In the "Private" profile, enable the "Turn on network discovery" and "Turn on file and printer sharing" options.
Then select the folder you plan to transfer, right-click, select Properties → Sharing tab → Advanced settings.
Check the box "Share this folder" and click the "Permissions" button, where you can set full access or read-only access for the "Everyone" group or a specific user.
Now on the second laptop, open File Explorer, go to the Network section, and you will see the name of the first computer with the shared folder.
Sometimes the system may require you to enter credentials even with the correct settings. In this case, use the username and password for the account on the computer where the folder is located.
For permanent access, you can map a network folder to a drive letter so that it appears in My Computer as a local partition.
Direct laptop-to-laptop connection (Ad-Hoc) without a router
In situations where the Mobile Hotspot feature is unavailable or requires specific configuration, the classic method of creating a computer-to-computer network can be used.
In Windows 10 and 11, the interface for creating such networks was hidden, but it can be activated through the command line with administrator rights.
Launch Command Prompt (cmd) as administrator and enter the command to check for hosted network support: netsh wlan show drivers.
If the "Hosted network support" line says "Yes", you can create a network with the command:
netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode=allow ssid=MyNetwork key=Password123Where MyNetwork — the name of your network, and Password123 — access password.
After creating the network, you need to start it with the command netsh wlan start hostednetwork.
On the second laptop, find the created network in the list of available connections and log in.
This method creates a stable connection that does not rely on the presence of external infrastructure, but requires manual configuration of IP addresses for data exchange.
Please note that after a reboot, the network created in this way may stop working, and you will have to enter the launch command again or create a special bat file.
To configure IP, go to the properties of the wireless adapter, select the TCP/IPv4 protocol and enter static addresses, for example, 192.168.1.1 for the first and 192.168.1.2 for the second.
Solving typical problems and diagnostics
Even with careful configuration, situations may arise where laptops cannot see each other or the connection is lost.
One of the most common reasons is that detection services are blocked by an antivirus or Windows firewall.
Try completely disabling your third-party antivirus software during the diagnostics and check your network visibility.
You should also make sure that the Simple Service Discovery Protocol Discovery Resource Publishing service is running.
To check the connection, use the built-in ping utility. Open a command prompt on one laptop and enter the IP address of the other:
ping 192.168.1.2 -tIf there are responses, then the physical connection layer is working, and the problem should be looked for in the sharing settings.
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The laptops don't see each other. | Different network profiles (Public) | Change your profile to "Private" |
| Asks for a password when logging in | The password for the shared folder is disabled. | Enable password protection or create identical accounts |
| Low transmission speed | Interference in the air or an old standard | Switch to the 5 GHz band |
| Limited internet access | NAT or gateway not configured | Check the sharing settings in the adapter properties. |
If nothing helps, try resetting the network settings with the command netsh int ip reset and reboot both devices.
In some cases, updating the motherboard BIOS helps, as it contains microcodes for managing the power consumption of WiFi modules.
Questions and Answers (FAQ)
Is it possible to connect laptops to a network if one has Windows 7 and the other has Windows 10?
Yes, this is possible, but there may be complications with encryption and detection protocols. Make sure SMB 1.0 support is enabled on Windows 10 (although it is less secure) or user passwords are configured correctly.
Does connecting to a WiFi network affect internet speed?
If you're using hotspot mode, then yes, your speed may decrease because the channel is split between receiving and transmitting. When both laptops are connected to the same router, the impact is minimal.
Is it safe to transfer files over the created WiFi network?
Using a complex WPA2-PSK password makes data interception extremely difficult for the average user. However, it's best to refrain from transmitting sensitive information in public places.
Why does the connection disappear after waking up from sleep mode?
This is due to the WiFi adapter's power-saving settings. In Device Manager, find your adapter, go to "Power Management," and uncheck "Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power."