How to transfer files from laptop to laptop via Wi-Fi: all working methods

Transfer files between laptops via Wi-Fi — a convenient alternative to flash drives and wires, especially when you need to quickly exchange documents, photos, or videos. Unlike physical media, wireless transfer doesn't require additional devices, and speeds can reach 100–300 Mbps depending on the network standard (802.11n/ac/ax). However, not all users know how to properly configure the connection to avoid errors or data leaks.

In this article we will look at 5 proven methods File transfers over Wi-Fi range from creating a local network to using cloud services and specialized software. Each method is suitable for different situations—whether it's a one-time transfer of a large archive or regular data exchange between devices. Important: if you're working with confidential files, please refer to the sections on security and encryption.

1. Transfer via a local Wi-Fi network (without a router)

The most direct way is to create access point on one laptop and connect the second one to it. This method doesn't require a router and works even in environments without internet access. The transfer speed depends on the Wi-Fi adapter standard: for example, Intel AX200 (Wi-Fi 6) will provide up to 900 Mbps, but outdated Realtek RTL8188EE (Wi-Fi 4) - no more 150 Mbps.

To set up a connection:

• 📶 On the first laptop (which will distribute Wi-Fi): open Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile Hotspot. Enable the option and set the network name (SSID) and password (minimum 8 characters, with numbers and letters).
• 💻 On the second laptop: Connect to the created network via the Wi-Fi panel. Once connected, open This Computer → Network — the first laptop should appear here.
• 🔒 Setting up access: On the sharing laptop, open the properties of the folder you want to share and the tab Access. Select Share → Everyone and set read/write permissions.

Disable your firewall during the transfer|Make sure both laptops are on the same network|Use a password with WPA2/WPA3|Do not transfer files larger than 4GB (FAT32 limit)

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⚠️ Attention: If the laptops don't see each other, check the settings Network discovery V Control Panel → Network and Sharing Center → Advanced Sharing SettingsEnable file discovery and sharing for the profile. Private network.

2. Using an FTP server (for large files)

Protocol FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is ideal for transferring large files, such as video projects or disk images. Unlike a local network, FTP allows you to resume interrupted downloads and control the speed. To set it up, you'll need a server program (e.g., FileZilla Server) and the client (sort of) WinSCP or the same FileZilla Client).

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Install FileZilla Server to the laptop that will be distributing files. When installing, leave the default port (21), but change the administrator password.
2. In the server interface, create a user: specify the name, password, and folder to which access will be granted. For example, C:\Transfer.
3. On the second laptop, connect via FileZilla Client, entering the IP address of the first laptop (you can find it out with the command ipconfig V CMD), port 21, login and password.

⚠️ Attention: By default, FTP transfers data without encryption, which allows you to intercept files through traffic analyzers (for example, Wireshark). Always turn it on. FTPS or SFTP in the server settings!

3. Cloud services: fast sharing without settings

If you need to transfer files one-time Without any complicated setup, cloud services are the best choice. They don't require network configuration, and speed depends solely on your internet connection. Popular services:

• ☁️ Google Drive: to 15 GB Free, Gmail integration. Suitable for documents and photos.
• ☁️ Dropbox: to 2 GB Free, but fast syncing. Ideal for small files.
• ☁️ Mega: to 20 GB free, with encryption AES-256Good for sensitive data.
• ☁️ Mail.ru Cloud: to 8 GB free, convenient for email users Mail.ru.

How to transfer a file:

1. Upload the file to the cloud from the first laptop via a browser or desktop application.
2. Generate download link (V Google Drive — "Open access → Link").
3. Send the link to the second laptop via email, messenger or even through QR code.

Google Drive|Dropbox|Mega|Mail.ru Cloud|Other-->

⚠️ Attention: Free cloud service accounts often limit upload/download speeds. For example, Google Drive can "choke" the speed up to 10 Mbps when transferring large files. To speed things up, use desktop clients or plugins like MultCloud.

4. Special programs for Wi-Fi transmission

If standard methods seem complicated, use programs optimized for file transfer over a local network. They automatically configure the connection and often offer additional features, such as chat or file preview.

Top 3 programs:

• 🖥️ LocalSendOpen source, cross-platform (Windows/macOS/Linux/Android), no registration required. Speed ​​limited by Wi-Fi only.
• 🖥️ Snapdrop: A web service (runs in a browser) that requires no installation. Suitable for one-time transfers.
• 🖥️ Feem: supports transfer between Windows, macOS, iOS And Android, there is a screen broadcast function.

Example of working with LocalSend:

1. Install the program on both laptops from the official website (localsend.org).
2. Launch LocalSend and select Send on the first laptop, Get - on the second.
3. Select files, specify the recipient (the laptop will appear automatically if both devices are on the same network), and confirm the transfer.

5. Transfer via SSH (for advanced users)

Protocol SSH (Secure Shell) provides secure file transfer with encryptionThis method requires command-line skills but guarantees confidentiality. It's suitable for transferring sensitive data, such as databases or source code.

Instructions for Windows (using OpenSSH):

1. On the receiving laptop, turn on OpenSSH server:

   Get-WindowsCapability -Online | Where-Object Name -like 'OpenSSH.Server*' | Add-WindowsCapability -Online

   Then start the service:

   Start-Service sshd
   Set-Service -Name sshd -StartupType 'Automatic'

2. On the sending laptop, use the command scp (if it is not there, install it through Git Bash or WSL):

   scp C:\path\to\file.txt user@IP_address_of_receiving_laptop:C:\destination\path\

⚠️ Attention: By default, SSH uses port 22, which may be blocked by a firewall or antivirus. Before transferring, check your firewall rules or temporarily disable it.

Comparison of methods: which one to choose?

The choice of transfer method depends on your objectives:

• 🔄 Regular exchange small files → Local area network or LocalSend.
• 📦 Transfer of large archives (>10 GB) → FTP or SSH.
• 🌍 Remote transmission (laptops on different networks) → Cloud services.
• 🔒 Confidential data → SSH or Mega (with encryption).

Common mistakes and their solutions

Even with proper setup, problems can still arise. Here are the most common ones and how to fix them:

• 🚫 Laptops can't see each other on the network.:
  • Check that both devices are connected to one network (even if it's a hotspot).
  • Turn it off Windows Defender Firewall or add an exception for file sharing.
  • Make sure that Network discovery included (see section 1).
• 🐢 Low transmission speed:
  • Switch to range 5 GHz (if the router supports it).
  • Close programs that consume traffic (torrents, streaming).
  • If you use the cloud, try a different service (for example, Mega instead of Google Drive).
• 🔒 Access error during transmission:
  • Check the folder permissions (they should be Reading and writing For All).
  • If you are using FTP, make sure the user has access to the required directory.

⚠️ Attention: If you are transferring files over a public network (for example, in a cafe or airport), Never use unsecured protocols (FTP without encryption, SMBv1)Attackers on the same network can intercept your data.

Why is Wi-Fi speed slower than cable?

Even under ideal conditions, Wi-Fi loses up to 30-50% of its speed due to interference, distance, and protocol specifics. For example, the standard 802.11ac theoretically gives up to 1.3 Gbps, but in practice you will get 400–700 MbpsIn addition, the speed is affected by the number of connected devices and router settings (channel, bandwidth).

FAQ: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to transfer files between laptops running different operating systems (Windows and macOS)?

Yes, all the methods described are cross-platform. For a local network on macOS use System Preferences → Sharing → File Sharing. Suitable for FTP/SSH FileZilla or a built-in terminal. Cloud services and programs like LocalSend work on both systems without additional settings.

How to transfer files if one of the laptops does not have Wi-Fi (only Ethernet)?

In this case, you can:

1. Connect both laptops to the router via cable - they will be on the same local network.
2. Use a second laptop as a hotspot via USB modem (if supported).
3. Transfer files via the cloud or flash drive if it is not possible to set up a network.

Is it safe to share passwords or banking documents over Wi-Fi?

No, unless you use encryption. For sensitive data:

• Use SSH or Mega (with encryption enabled).
• Archive files with a password (7-Zip or WinRAR With AES-256).
• Avoid public networks - even with encryption, the risk of interception remains.

Is it possible to transfer files between laptops via Wi-Fi Direct?

Technically yes, but Wi-Fi Direct poorly supported on laptops (unlike smartphones). Most PCs can't create P2P-connections without a router. An alternative is to use LocalSend or customize ad-hoc- network via command line (but it is complicated and unstable).

How to speed up transfer of large files (>10 GB)?

Some tips:

• Split the file into pieces (for example, using 7-Zip and options Split into volumes).
• Use FTP with setting Passive mode (V FileZilla).
• Connect your laptops to the router via cable—even if you're transmitting via Wi-Fi, a wired connection for one of the devices will speed up the process.
• Disconnect all other devices from the network during the transfer.