Creating a wireless local network between two computers is one of the most useful features for modern users. You no longer need to find a USB flash drive or connect to the internet to transfer gigabytes of photos, videos, or documents. As long as both devices are within range of the wireless signal, you can enjoy full-fledged data exchange at high speeds.
The setup process may seem complicated only at first glance, since the operating system Windows By default, it seeks to protect the user by hiding the computer from prying eyes. However, by understanding how network protocols work, you can set up a connection in just a few minutes. In this article, we'll cover two main scenarios: connecting through a router and creating a direct computer-to-computer connection.
The main advantage of this approach is flexibility. You can play online games, use a shared printer, or simply access files on your main PC while sitting on the couch with your laptop. Wi-Fi Standards today provide sufficient bandwidth even for streaming heavy high-definition video directly from a remote machine's hard drive.
Selecting a topology: via a router or directly
Before starting any technical manipulations, it is necessary to decide on the connection method, as this determines the sequence of actions. The most common and stable option is to use Wi-Fi routerIn this case, both computers connect to the same wireless network, and the router assumes the role of IP address distribution. This is an ideal option for a home with a permanent access point.
The second option is to create a network of the type Ad-Hoc Or "computer-to-computer." Here, one PC broadcasts Wi-Fi, and the other connects to it as a regular access point. This method is useful if the router is broken, located far away, or simply unavailable. However, it's important to note that with this type of connection, broadcasting Wi-Fi from a computer can limit its ability to access the global internet unless a bridge is configured.
There are some nuances depending on the operating system version and wireless adapter drivers. Some older network cards may not support master mode. Therefore, if you plan to frequently use a direct connection, make sure your equipment supports the technology. Wi-Fi Direct or virtual access points.
⚠️ Note: When connecting via public Wi-Fi networks (cafes, airports), the operating system automatically assigns the network profile to "Public." In this mode, computer discovery is blocked for security reasons. To connect PCs, you must switch the profile to "Private Network."
Preparing the Windows operating system
Regardless of the connection type you choose, the first step is always to configure network discovery settings. Windows hides your computer by default to protect your data in public places. You need to explicitly allow the system to show this PC to other devices. To do this, go to Settings from the Start menu or click Win + I.
In the window that opens, select the "Network & Internet" section, then find "Status" or "Wi-Fi." Here you can manage known networks or change the properties of the current connection. The key is switching the network profile. If it's set to "Public," the system will block incoming connections, considering the environment untrusted.
After changing the profile to "Private," you need to check the sharing settings. Go to "Settings" → "Network & Internet" → "Advanced network settings." In the "Private network" section, enable the "Turn on network discovery" and "Turn on file and printer sharing" switches. Without these settings, the computers simply won't see each other, even if the IP addresses are correct.
Scenario 1: Connecting via a Wi-Fi router
This is the simplest and most reliable method, requiring no complex manual IP address configuration. Make sure both computers are connected to the same wireless network on the router. You can check this by clicking the Wi-Fi icon in the system tray: the network names on both devices should match. If you have a dual-band router, it's best to use the same frequency (e.g., 5 GHz) for both computers to avoid visibility issues.
Once connected, the system should automatically assign devices addresses from the same subnet. Typically, these addresses are 192.168.0.x or 192.168.1.x. To check which IP address your computer has been assigned, open the command prompt. Win + R, enter cmd and press Enter. In the black window, enter the command ipconfig and find the line "IPv4 address".
If the first three numbers of the address match on both computers (for example, 192.168.1.5 and 192.168.1.12), they are on the same network and ready to exchange data. If the addresses look like 169.254.xx, this means the router's DHCP server hasn't assigned an address, and the connection hasn't been established correctly. In this case, try rebooting the router.
Scenario 2: Direct Computer-to-Computer Connection
If you don't have a router handy, one of your computers will need to become an access point. In Windows 10 and 11, this is done using the "Mobile Hotspot" feature. Go to "Settings" → "Network & Internet" → "Mobile Hotspot." Turn the switch to "On" and remember the network name and password listed there.
The second computer should find the created network in the list of available Wi-Fi connections and connect to it by entering the password. After a successful connection, the system will ask if you want to make this computer discoverable. Be sure to answer "Yes" to activate the desired network profile. A logical connection is now established, but file sharing may require manual IP configuration if automatic address assignment fails.
To manually configure the IP address, go to Control Panel → Network and Internet → Network and Sharing Center. Click Change adapter settings, right-click the wireless connection, and select Properties. Find Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) in the list, select it, and click Properties. On the sharing PC, enter the following IP address: 192.168.137.1, mask 255.255.255.0On the connected PC: IP 192.168.137.2, mask 255.255.255.0, gateway 192.168.137.1.
What should I do if my laptop can't see another PC's network?
Make sure the "Allow other network users to connect through your internet connection" box is checked in the adapter properties on the sharing device. Also, check if your antivirus software is blocking the creation of a local network.
Setting up shared access to folders and drives
Once the network is set up, you need to decide what exactly you'll be sharing. Simply having a connection isn't enough—you need to actually share resources. Select the folder you want to share. Right-click it, select "Properties," and go to the "Sharing" tab. Click "Advanced Settings."
Check the "Share this folder" box. Click "Permissions" below. Here you can configure permissions: Full Control allows the second user to delete and modify files, while Read Control only allows them to view and copy them. For a home network, it's common to grant full access to trusted users.
There's also a quick way to do this via the "Sharing" tab in the folder's properties. Select "Everyone" (or a specific user) from the list and click "Add." Set the permission level.
☑️ Check access settings
Solution and error table
Even with proper configuration, conflicts may still occur. Often, the problem lies with antivirus software or firewalls blocking incoming connections. If the computers can't see each other, try temporarily disabling your third-party antivirus. Also, make sure the Discovery Resource Publishing service is running in Windows.
Sometimes resetting network settings helps. In the network settings, there's a "Reset network" button that reinstalls drivers and returns settings to factory defaults. Afterward, you'll need to re-enter your Wi-Fi password. Also, make sure the computer names (Workgroup) match, although this requirement has become less stringent in modern versions of Windows.
Below is a table of error codes and solutions that may be encountered during diagnostics.
| Symptom / Error Code | Probable cause | Solution method |
|---|---|---|
| 0x80070035 | The network path was not found. | Check the PC name, enable SMB 1.0 in Windows Features |
| Computers are not visible on the network | Network Profile "Public" | Change the profile to "Private" in the Wi-Fi settings |
| Password prompt upon login | Password protection is enabled | Disable password protection in Network and Sharing Center or enter data |
| Unstable speed | Interference or old standard | Switch to 5 GHz, update adapter drivers |
⚠️ Note: Settings interfaces may vary slightly depending on your Windows version (Home, Pro, Enterprise) and installed updates. If you can't find the item, search for keywords in the system settings.
Speed Optimization and Security
After successful pairing, it's worth considering performance. Wi-Fi data transfer speeds are always lower than cable speeds and depend on signal quality. Try to position computers within line of sight of the router or access point. Bandwidth usage 5 GHz 2.4 GHz is preferable as it is less crowded and provides higher throughput.
From a security standpoint, don't share system drives. Share only those folders that are truly needed for immediate work. Change account passwords regularly, especially if guests have access to your Wi-Fi network. For a guest network, it's best to create a separate guest profile on the router with client isolation.
Networking computers opens up new possibilities for organizing your workspace and entertainment. You can create a home media server, set up backups, or simply play games over a local network. The key is to properly configure access rights and ensure all devices are within a trusted perimeter.
How do I find out the IP address of another computer on the network?
On the remote computer, click Win + R, enter cmdIn the command line, write ipconfigFind the IPv4 address line. This is the address you need to enter in Explorer to connect (for example, \\192.168.1.5).
Why does speed drop when transferring large files?
Speed may drop due to an overheating Wi-Fi adapter, interference from neighboring networks, or background programs. Also, make sure you're using the 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) or ax (Wi-Fi 6) standard, not the outdated 802.11n.
Is it possible to combine computers running different versions of Windows?
Yes, Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11 are compatible with each other. However, on newer systems (10/11), the SMBv1 protocol, which is required for communication with older operating systems, is disabled by default. It can be enabled in Windows Features, but this reduces security.
Is internet required for a local network to function?
No, internet access is not required. The local network operates autonomously. However, if you're using a router without a connection to a provider, make sure it's turned on and distributing IP addresses (DHCP).