A modern home is rarely complete without several computing devices, be it a desktop PC, a laptop, or even a powerful tablet. Transferring files via flash drive or uploading them to the cloud just to save a few megabytes is becoming a thing of the past. A properly configured local area network (LAN) allows you to instantly transfer data, play online, and use shared resources such as printers or media libraries.
Establishing a connection via a wireless interface Wi-Fi Eliminates the need to run cables throughout the apartment, preserving the aesthetics of the interior. However, despite its apparent simplicity, the setup process often raises questions among users, especially when the security system blocks device detection. In this article, we'll cover all the details so you can create a reliable and fast data exchange environment.
To successfully implement the project you will need a working wireless router and devices with working network adapters. It's important to understand that the data transfer speed in a wireless network will depend on the standard. Wi-Fi (for example, 802.11n or ac) and signal quality, but for most home tasks, the throughput will be quite sufficient.
Preparing equipment and checking basic parameters
Before proceeding with the operating system's software settings, you need to ensure the hardware is physically ready. All computers to be connected must be connected to the same access point. If you're using a dual-band router, ensure all devices are in the same frequency zone, for example, 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz.
Check that the network adapter is enabled on each device and is functioning correctly. There shouldn't be any yellow exclamation marks in Device Manager, and the drivers should be updated to the latest version. Sometimes the problem lies in outdated adapter software that doesn't correctly handle network broadcast requests.
⚠️ Important: Make sure AP Isolation is not enabled in your router settings. This feature is specifically designed for hotels and cafes to prevent guests from seeing each other's devices, and it completely blocks local connections between your PCs.
It's also worth paying attention to IP addressing. In most cases, the router automatically assigns addresses via the protocol. DHCP, and manual intervention is not required. However, to ensure stable operation of network resources, such as shared folders, it sometimes makes sense to reserve static addresses in the router's settings, binding them to the MAC addresses of the network cards.
Setting up a network profile in Windows
By default, the Windows operating system tends to treat new connections as public, automatically hiding your computer from prying eyes. To enable discovery, you need to change your network profile to "Private." This can be done in the Settings panel by going to the "Network & Internet" section.
Click on your connection icon and select the "Private" network type. This will tell the system you're in a trusted environment and activate the necessary services to search for devices. Without this step, other computers in the network list simply won't appear, even if a physical connection is established.
- 🔹 Open
Parametersvia the Start menu. - 🔹 Go to the section
Network and Internet. - 🔹 Select an active connection (Wi-Fi).
- 🔹 In the "Network Profile" section, set the switch to the "Private" position.
After changing the profile, the system will automatically apply the corresponding set of firewall rules. If you use a third-party antivirus with a built-in firewall, make sure it doesn't also block local connections. Antiviruses often have their own "Public Network" profile, which overrides system settings.
Enabling discovery and sharing services
The next critical step is enabling network services responsible for visibility and data exchange. Windows has a centralized control center for these settings, called Network and Sharing Center. This is where discovery settings are configured.
Find the "Advanced sharing settings" section. Here, enable network discovery and file and printer sharing for the current network profile. It's also recommended to enable the option to manage HomeGroup connections, if available in your OS version.
For full functionality of file sharing in corporate or mixed networks, it is sometimes necessary to enable support SMB 1.0, although modern systems use newer protocols by default. Be careful when enabling older protocols, as they can pose security risks if there are unsecured devices on the network.
| Parameter | Recommended value | Impact on the network |
|---|---|---|
| Network discovery | Turn on | The PC becomes visible to others |
| File sharing | Turn on | Allows reading/writing data |
| Access to printers | Turn on | Allows you to print remotely |
| Password encryption | Enable (recommended) | Requires authorization to access |
Be sure to save your changes by clicking the "Save Changes" button at the bottom of the page. The system may prompt you to confirm your administrator rights. After applying the settings, it is recommended to restart your computer to ensure all services initialize correctly with the new settings.
Creating a shared folder and setting access rights
Now that the network infrastructure is ready, you can begin creating a resource that will be shared by all network members. Select the folder on the drive you want to share and right-click it. Select "Properties" from the context menu, then go to the "Sharing" tab.
Click the "Advanced Settings" button and check the "Share this folder" box. You can also configure permissions for different users here. For example, you can allow one user to only read files, while another has full access with the ability to modify and delete data.
☑️ Check access settings
It's important to note that accessing the folder from another computer will require entering the username and password of the folder owner's account. This is a standard Windows security measure. If you want easier access, you can create a dedicated user with a simple password exclusively for network shares, but this will reduce the overall level of security.
⚠️ Note: Access settings interfaces may vary depending on your Windows version (10, 11) and system build. If you don't see the options described, check if "Public folder sharing" is enabled, which makes the folder accessible to everyone on the network without a password.
After setting access rights, the folder will be accessible via the network path. To test this, open File Explorer on another computer and enter [in the address bar] \\Computer_Name or IP addressIf everything is done correctly, you will see the shared folder and be able to work with its contents as if it were a local drive.
Setting up a shared printer via WiFi network
One of the most useful features of a home network is the ability to print documents from any device to a single printer. If the printer is connected directly to the router via USB or has its own Wi-Fi module, setup is extremely simple. Otherwise, the printer can be connected to one of the PCs and shared.
First, make sure the printer drivers are installed and the device is working correctly on the host computer. Then, go to "Devices and Printers," select the desired printer, right-click, and select "Printer properties." On the "Sharing" tab, check "Share this printer."
A network printer must be added to the client computers. This can be done through the Add Hardware Wizard or simply by following the path \\Main_PC_Name in File Explorer. The system will automatically find an available printer and prompt you to install the necessary drivers. This process may take several minutes depending on your network speed.
What to do if the driver is not found automatically?
In this case, download the full driver package from the printer manufacturer's website for your version of Windows. When adding the printer, select "Install the driver manually" and specify the path to the downloaded INF file.
It's worth noting that for a shared printer to work, the host computer to which it is physically connected must be turned on. If the printer is networked (connected directly to the router), it is always accessible as long as the power indicator on both the printer and the router is lit.
Diagnosing problems and troubleshooting connection errors
Even with proper configuration, situations may arise where computers cannot see each other. First, try running the ping command. Open the command prompt (cmd) and enter ping neighbor's IP addressIf responses are received, then there is a physical connection, and the problem lies in security settings or services.
A common cause of problems is the Print Spooler or Function Discovery Resource Publication service, which may be stopped. Check their status in the Services section (called by the command services.msc). Make sure they are running and the startup type is set to Automatic.
- 🔹 Check the service's operation Function Discovery Resource Publication.
- 🔹 Make sure the service SSDP Discovery active.
- 🔹 Restart the service Workstation.
If ping fails, check your Windows Firewall settings. The network profile may have been defined incorrectly, or your antivirus software may be blocking ICMP requests. It's also worth checking whether the computers are in different workgroups. By default, Windows uses a workgroup. WORKGROUP, and all PCs must be part of it.
Local network security and data protection
By networking computers, you open ports for data exchange, which requires increased security. Never use a network with the "Public" profile for home use, as this disables important protections. Always use strong passwords for user accounts.
It's recommended to regularly update your router firmware. Manufacturers often patch vulnerabilities that could allow attackers to access your local network from outside. Also, make sure the default administrator password on your router has been changed.
If you only use the network to transfer files between your devices, consider creating a separate guest WiFi network for your guests' smartphones. This will isolate their devices from your computers and protect your personal data from accidental or malicious access.
Should I disable the password when accessing shared folders?
Disabling password protection (the "Password-protected sharing" option) is convenient for an internal network where no one is using it, as it simplifies access. However, if a stranger can connect to your WiFi, they will have access to all shared resources. It is recommended to use password protection or create a separate user with limited rights for network access.
Why is file transfer speed over WiFi slow?
Speed depends on the WiFi standard, distance to the router, presence of walls, and interference from neighboring networks. For large amounts of data (over 10-20 GB), it's better to use a cable connection (LAN) or an external hard drive, as actual WiFi speeds are often 30-50% of the theoretical speed due to protocol overhead.
Is it possible to connect Windows and macOS computers?
Yes, this is possible. On a Mac, go to System Preferences -> Sharing and enable "File Sharing." Windows will see the Mac as a network device. However, for reverse visibility (so that the Mac can see Windows), you may need to configure the SMBv1 protocol on the Mac or carefully configure the permissions in Windows.