Creating a local area network between computers without cables is a task that may seem complicated at first glance. Modern operating systems and routers have built-in tools that allow you to set up data exchange in minutes. You don't need to be a system administrator to set up file transfers or organize online gaming between devices in the same apartment or office.
The basis for a successful connection is a stable Wi-Fi router, to which all computers involved are connected. It's important to understand that the data transfer speed in such a network directly depends on the power of your wireless equipment and the frequency range. If you plan to transfer large video files or work with databases, you should ensure that all devices support the standard. 802.11ac or newer.
Before accessing operating system settings, ensure all computers can see and are connected to the wireless network. This is a basic requirement, without which further actions are pointless. It's also a good idea to prepare user account passwords in advance if you plan to use secure access to shared folders.
Checking the equipment and basic router setup
The first step is to ensure all computers are on the same subnet. This means they must be connected to the same router, whether wired or wireless. Typically, the router automatically assigns IP addresses via the protocol. DHCP, which eliminates the need for the user to enter addresses manually.
However, in some cases, static IP addresses can be useful for ensuring consistent operation of network resources. If you decide to enter the addresses manually, make sure they differ only in the last digit, for example, 192.168.1.10 and 192.168.1.11. The subnet mask should be the same on all devices; this is most often 255.255.255.0.
⚠️ Attention: When manually configuring IP addresses, make sure that the selected range does not match the DHCP distribution range on the router, otherwise address conflicts will occur and the network will become unstable.
You can use the command line to check the current connection status. Enter the command ipconfig and find the line "IPv4 address." If the address begins with 169.254, then the computer did not receive an address from the router, and the connection was not established.
Setting up a network profile in Windows
By default, the Windows operating system blocks discovery of other devices for security reasons when the "Public" network profile is selected. For computers to see each other, you must change the network type to "Private" or "Home." This action allows the system to open ports for local data exchange.
You can change your profile through the network settings menu. Go to Settings → Network and Internet → Wi-Fi and click on your network name. In the window that opens, select the "Private" profile type. This will stop the system from hiding your computer from other devices on the same network.
Next, you need to activate the detection functions. Open Control Panel → Network and Sharing Center → Change advanced sharing settingsHere you need to enable network discovery and file and printer sharing for the current profile.
Creating a shared folder and setting access rights
Once the network settings are applied, you need to determine which files will be accessible to other users. The easiest way is to create a new folder, for example, on a disk. D:, and name it "Exchange." Properly organizing the folder structure will help avoid confusion in the future.
To configure access, right-click the folder, select "Properties," and go to the "Sharing" tab. Click "Advanced" and check "Share this folder." Below, you can configure permissions: allow reading, modifying, and deleting files.
It's important to remember to check the "Security" tab in the folder properties. A user or group named "Everyone" with the appropriate permissions must be added there. Without this step, the system may block access even when the network folder is open, displaying an access rights error.
☑️ Checking shared folder settings
Mapping a network drive and accessing resources
To avoid constantly searching for files through your network, it's easiest to map the shared folder as a separate drive in "My Computer." To do this, right-click "This PC" in File Explorer and select "Map network drive."
In the window that opens, select the drive letter (for example, Z:) and enter the path to the folder in the format \\ComputerName\Folder or \\IP address\FolderIf you use an IP address, the connection will be more reliable, as computer names may not resolve correctly.
When attempting to connect, the system may prompt you for credentials. Enter the login and password for the user account on the computer where the folder is located. This protects your data from unauthorized access by other devices on the network.
| Parameter | Description | Recommended value |
|---|---|---|
| Access protocol | Data transfer method | SMB 2.0 or higher |
| Port | Network port for file sharing | 445 |
| Network type | Windows Security Profile | Private |
| Encryption | Protection of transmitted data | Enabled (AES) |
Solving common computer visibility issues
Users often encounter a situation where computers are connected to the same router but cannot see each other in the network environment. One common cause is a disabled service. SSDP Discovery or Function Discovery Resource Publication. They must be launched through the "Services" menu (command services.msc).
Another possible cause is blocking by your antivirus or firewall. Check your security software settings and ensure the private network is marked as trusted. In some cases, you may need to manually add an inbound rule in Windows Firewall.
If the computer names don't appear, try accessing them directly using their IP address. Enter it in the address bar of File Explorer. \\192.168.1.X, where X is the address of the target PC. This will help diagnose whether the problem is with the names (DNS/NetBIOS) or the connection itself.
⚠️ Attention: Windows and router settings interfaces are subject to update. The layout of menu items sometimes changes in new OS versions, so look for similar sections if the exact names don't match.
Why can't computers see each other after a Windows update?
Windows often resets the network profile to "Public" and disables network discovery after major updates. Check your sharing settings again.
Optimizing connection speed and stability
For maximum performance when transferring large amounts of data, it is recommended to use a range 5 GHz, if your equipment supports it. This band is less crowded and provides higher throughput than the 2.4 GHz standard.
It's also worth paying attention to the router's location. Walls and household appliances can significantly weaken the signal, leading to slower speeds and connection interruptions. Ideally, the router should be located in the center of the apartment or office, within direct line of sight to the main workstations.
If you're using older network cards, make sure the drivers are up to date. Manufacturers frequently release updates that improve stability in access point or client mode. You can check the driver version in Device Manager under "Network Adapters."
Local network security
By making files accessible, you potentially open the door to attackers if they gain access to your Wi-Fi network. Use a strong, encrypted password for your wireless network. WPA2/WPA3Never leave the network open or with a simple password.
Create separate users with limited privileges for sensitive data, rather than using the administrator account for general access. Change passwords regularly and check the list of connected devices in the router interface.
If you're in a public place or office with an unreliable network, use a VPN or avoid using shared folders. In these situations, it's best to use encrypted cloud storage to protect your data.
Why does it say "Incorrect username or password" when I enter my password?
Make sure you are entering your computer account credentials, where is the folder located, not the one you're connecting from. Also, check that the password field isn't empty—Windows prevents network access for users without a password by default.
Is it possible to combine computers running different versions of Windows?
Yes, Windows 10, 11, 8, and even 7 can work on the same network. However, older versions (XP, Vista) may require additional SMB 1.0 protocol settings, which are not recommended for security reasons.
How do I find out the IP address of another computer on the network?
On the desired computer, click Win + R, enter cmd, then the command ipconfigYou're interested in the IPv4 address line. Alternatively, look at the client list in your router's web interface.