How to transfer files to another computer via Wi-Fi: all methods compared

Transfer files between computers via Wi-Fi — a convenient alternative to flash drives and cloud services when you need to quickly exchange data within the same network. Unlike a wired connection, the wireless method requires no cables, and compared to Bluetooth - provides 10-50 times greater speed (up to 100-300 Mbps (Depending on the router standard). But how do you properly configure the connection to avoid data loss or leaks of confidential information?

In this article we will look at 5 proven methods Wi-Fi file transfers - from built-in tools Windows/macOS to specialized programs like LocalSend or FeemYou'll learn which method is the fastest, which is the most secure, and how to avoid common errors (for example, when computers don't "see" each other on the network). Finally, you'll find a comparison table of all the options, showing their speed, setup complexity, and compatibility with different operating systems.

1. Transfer via "Shared Folder" (SMB protocol)

The most universal method that works on Windows, macOS And Linux without additional software. The essence of the method: one computer acts as server (hands out a folder), the second one - like client (connects to it). The speed is limited only by the capabilities of your router (up to 1 Gbps on Wi-Fi 6).

How to set up on Windows 10/11:

• 📁 Open Conductor, right-click on the folder → Properties → Access → Sharing.
• 👥 Select a user (e.g. All) and set permissions (Reading or Reading and writing).
• 🌐 In Control Panel → Network and Sharing Center → Change advanced settings turn on Network discovery And File sharing.
• 🔗 On the second PC, enter Conductor address: \\[IP address of the first PC]\folder name (For example, \\192.168.1.100\Documents).

⚠️ Note: By default Windows blocks access to shared folders through firewallIf the connection doesn't work, check the rules for File and Printer (SMB) V Windows Defender Firewall → Allow the app to communicate.

For macOS the path will be different: System Preferences → Sharing → Files & Folders, then on the second Mac, connect via Finder → Go → Connect to Server (address: smb://[IP address]). On Linux use Samba (sudo apt install samba For Ubuntu).

Make sure both PCs are connected to the same Wi-Fi network|Disable VPN (it may block local traffic)|Check the IP addresses of the computers (command ipconfig in CMD)|Configure the same working group (for Windows)

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2. Using an FTP server (FileZilla, built-in tools)

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is a classic file transfer protocol that supports download resumption and works even on low-end routers. Disadvantage: Requires server setup on one of the PCs. Optimal for transferring files large files (videos, backups, disk images).

Instructions for Windows with the program FileZilla Server:

1. Download and install FileZilla Server With official website.
2. In the administration panel, create a user (for example, transfer) and specify the folder to access.
3. On the second PC, connect via any FTP client (for example, FileZilla Client or WinSCP) at the address ftp://[server_IP address].

For macOS/Linux You can use the built-in FTP server:

# Installing vsftpd on Ubuntu/Debian
sudo apt install vsftpd
sudo systemctl start vsftpd

Configuration (edit /etc/vsftpd.conf)
anonymous_enable=NO
local_enable=YES
write_enable=YES

⚠️ Warning: FTP transfers passwords to in open formFor safety, please use SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) or configure FTPS (FTP over SSL). In FileZilla Server this is done in the section SSL/TLS Settings.

Why is FTP better than shared folder (SMB)?

FTP supports resume downloading (useful for large files >4 GB), while SMB restarts the transfer if the connection is lost. In addition, FTP is easier to configure for access from another subnet (for example, if the router separates the 192.168.1.x and 192.168.0.x networks).

3. Direct transfer programs (LocalSend, Feem, Snapdrop)

If you don't want to mess around with protocol settings, use specialized utilities. They create direct connection Between devices via Wi-Fi (sometimes via a local network), often with encryption and no file size limits. Popular solutions:

• 📱 LocalSend - open analogue AirDrop for Windows/macOS/Linux/Android. Works via browser or desktop app, supports end-to-end encryption.
• 🚀 Feem — a cross-platform program with a simple interface. Transfers files at speeds up to 50 MB/s (depends on the router).
• 🌐 Snapdrop — a web service (https://snapdrop.net), no installation required. Works via WebRTC, but may slow down on large files (>1 GB).

Example with LocalSend:

1. Install the application on both computers localsend.org.
2. Turn on Wi-Fi And Bluetooth (needed to detect devices).
3. Select file → click Send → select the target PC from the list.

Shared folder (SMB)|FTP server|Programs like LocalSend|Cloud services (Google Drive, Yandex Disk)|Other

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LocalSend doesn't require an internet connection—all data is transferred exclusively through the local network, making it more secure than cloud services. However, to work on Linux manual installation of dependencies may be required (eg. libgtk-3).

4. Transfer via SSH (for Linux/macOS and advanced users)

If both computers are running on Linux or macOS, the safest way is to use SSH (Secure Shell). This method encrypts all traffic and does not require additional software (except for the built-in terminal). The speed is comparable to FTP, but the setup is more complicated.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. On server On your PC (where the files will be downloaded), run:

   ssh-keygen -t ed25519 # Generate a key (press Enter 3 times)
   sudo systemctl enable --now ssh # Enable SSH server (for Ubuntu/Debian)

2. On client PC copy files via scp:

   scp /path/to/file user@[server_IP_address]:/path/on/server
   Example:
   scp ~/Documents/report.pdf user@192.168.1.100:/home/user/Downloads/

For Windows can be used PuTTY (for SSH) and WinSCP (for file transfer). The main advantage of the method is full encryption traffic, which is critical for the transmission of confidential data (such as documents or passwords).

⚠️ Note: By default, SSH uses the port 22, which can be blocked by some routers or antivirus programs. If the connection fails, check your settings. port forwarding (Port Forwarding) on ​​the router.

5. Cloud services with local synchronization (Resilio Sync, Syncthing)

These programs create decentralized network between devices, synchronizing files directly via Wi-Fi or the Internet. Unlike Google Drive, the data is not uploaded to third-party servers, which speeds up the process and increases privacy.

Comparison of two popular solutions:

How to set up Syncthing:

1. Install the program from syncthing.net on both PCs.
2. On the first PC, add a folder for synchronization in the web interface (http://localhost:8384).
3. On the second PC, enter Device ID (you will find it in Actions → Show ID) of the first PC and confirm the connection.

Comparison of all methods: which one to choose?

To make your choice easier, we will summarize the key parameters in a table:

The choice depends on your priorities:

• 🚀 Maximum speed → SMB or FTP.
• 🔒 Security → SSH or Syncthing.
• 🛠️ Simplicity → LocalSend or Snapdrop.
• 📁 Folder synchronization → Resilio Sync.

Common problems and their solutions

Even with proper setup, errors can still occur. Let's look at the most common ones:

1. Computers don't see each other on the network

• 🔌 Check that both PCs are connected to one Wi-Fi network (not to the guest!).
• 🛡️ Turn it off firewall or antivirus (for example, Avast blocks SMB).
• 📡 Make sure that your router does not separate devices into different subnets (for example, 192.168.1.x And 192.168.0.x).

2. Slow transmission speed

• 📶 Switch your router to a different range 5 GHz (less busy than 2.4 GHz).
• 🔄 Change the Wi-Fi channel in the router settings (use Wi-Fi Analyzer to search for a free channel).
• 🖥️ Connect one of the PCs to the router via cable (hybrid connection will speed up transmission).

3. Access Denied error

• 👤 Check the folder permissions: right-click → Properties → Security.
• 🔑 Make sure you have the correct login and password on your FTP/SMB server.
• 📋 For SMB V Windows may need to be enabled SMB 1.0 (not recommended due to vulnerabilities!).

⚠️ Attention: If you use Windows 10/11 Pro, check security policies V gpedit.msc → Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Network → Lanman Workstation. Sometimes the parameter Enable insecure guest logins blocks access to shared folders.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to transfer files between Windows and macOS?

Yes, all the methods described are cross-platform. For SMB on macOS use the path smb://[IP address] V Finder → Connect to Server. For LocalSend or Feem It is enough to install the application on both systems.

How to transfer files if the computers are on different networks?

If the routers are not connected, use:

• 🌍 Cloud services (Google Drive, Dropbox) - slowly but simply.
• 🔗 Hamachi or ZeroTier — create a virtual network (VPN) between PCs.
• 📡 Resilio Sync with option Relays and trackers (works via the Internet).

For FTP or SSH will need to be configured port forwarding on the router.

What is the maximum transfer speed for Wi-Fi?

The speed depends on the router and PC standard:

• Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n): to 150 Mbps (actually ~50 Mbit/s).
• Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac): to 867 Mbps (actually ~200-300 Mbit/s).
• Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax): to 2.4 Gbps (actually ~500-800 Mbit/s).

In practice, the speed is limited hard drive (HDD gives ~50-100 MB/s, SSD – up to 500 MB/s).

Is it possible to transfer files without a router (directly via Wi-Fi)?

Yes, for this:

1. On one of the PCs distribute Wi-Fi through Mobile hotspot (Windows) or Public Internet (macOS).
2. Connect the second PC to the created network.
3. Use any of the methods described (eg. LocalSend or FTP).

Cons: The speed will be lower than through a router (due to restrictions) SoftAP).

Is it safe to transfer files over Wi-Fi?

The level of security depends on the method:

• 🔴 SMB v1 - vulnerable to attacks (disable in Control Panel → Programs → Turn Windows features on or off).
• 🟡 FTP - transmits passwords openly (use FTPS or SFTP).
• 🟢 SSH/Syncthing/LocalSend - encrypt data (most secure).

For maximum protection:

• Use complex passwords (at least 12 characters).
• Turn off sharing after transferring.
• Update your router firmware (fixes vulnerabilities like KRACK).