How to Transfer Files from Computer to Computer via Wi-Fi: A Complete Guide

Transfer files between computers via Wi-Fi — a convenient alternative to flash drives, external drives, and cloud services when you need to quickly exchange data without extra devices. Unlike a wired connection (Ethernet), wireless transmission requires no cables, and compared to Bluetooth, it provides 10-50 times Higher speed. However, not everyone knows that you don't need a router to achieve this: modern operating systems allow you to create a direct network between PCs or use an existing local network.

In this article we will look at All current methods for transferring files via Wi-Fi between computers running Windows, macOS, and Linux., including hidden system features, third-party programs, and cloud solutions with local caching. You'll learn how to choose a method based on the data volume (from small documents to 4K movies), security level (encryption vs. open network), and speed (up to 1 Gbps on modern adapters). We'll also compare the pros and cons of each option in a table and provide recommendations for troubleshooting common issues, from device visibility issues to connection errors.

1. Transfer via local network (SMB/FTP)

The most universal way is to use protocols SMB (Windows/macOS) or FTP (cross-platform). It works if both computers are connected to the same Wi-Fi network (via a router or access point). The speed is limited only by the capabilities of your router and Wi-Fi adapters: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) can be achieved 900-1200 Mbps under ideal conditions.

For Windows, the easiest way is to use the built-in function Sharing folders:

• 📁 Open Conductor, right-click on the folder → Properties → Access → Share.
• 👥 In the section Security add a user Everyone (or a specific user) with read/write rights.
• 🔍 On the second PC, enter in the address bar \\[IP address of the first PC] (For example, \\192.168.1.100).

For macOS use File sharing V System Preferences → Sharing, and for Linux, install Samba (sudo apt install samba) and configure the config /etc/samba/smb.conf.

Disable the firewall during the transfer|Make sure both PCs are on the same subnet (e.g. 192.168.1.x)|Use static IP or DHCP reservation|Check that "Client Isolation" mode is enabled on the router (if available)

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⚠️ Attention: If you are transmitting sensitive data, disable guest access in the SMB settings and use accounts with passwords. The SMBv1 protocol (obsolete) is vulnerable to attacks like EternalBlue - Make sure that Windows is enabled SMBv2/v3 (default in Windows 10/11).

2. Direct Wi-Fi connection (Ad-Hoc or Wi-Fi Direct)

If you don't have a router, you can create one direct connection between computers. In Windows, this is called Ad-Hoc network, in modern standards - Wi-Fi DirectThe speed will be higher than through a router (there are no transmission losses), but the range is limited. 10-15 meters indoors.

Instructions for Windows:

1. Open Command line on behalf of the administrator.
2. Create a network:

   netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode=allow ssid=MyWiFiNet key=12345678 keyUsage=persistent

3. Run it:

   netsh wlan start hostednetwork

4. On the second PC, connect to the network MyWiFiNet with a password 12345678.

For macOS use Create a network in the Wi-Fi menu, and for Linux - the utility nmcli:

nmcli dev wifi hotspot ifname wlan0 ssid MyWiFiNet password "12345678"

Why might Wi-Fi Direct not work?

On some laptops (especially with adapters) Intel AX200/AX210) Wi-Fi Direct is disabled in the BIOS. The problem could also be with the drivers—update them via device Manager or the manufacturer's website. If the network is created but there's no internet connection, that's normal: a direct connection doesn't provide network access, only local data exchange.

3. Using specialized programs

Third-party utilities simplify file transfer by adding a graphical interface, encryption, and additional features (such as QR code transfer). Popular solutions include:

• 🖥️ LocalSend (open source, cross-platform) - encrypted transmission over a local network.
• 📱 Snapdrop (web service) - works through a browser, does not require installation.
• 🔒 Resilio Sync — folder synchronization based on the torrent principle (P2P).

Example with LocalSend:

1. Install the program on both PCs from the website localsend.org.
2. Turn on Receiving files on the target device.
3. Select a file on the sending PC → specify the recipient from the list.

Via local network (SMB/FTP)|Via cloud (Google Drive, Dropbox)|Directly via Wi-Fi (Ad-Hoc)|Using special programs (LocalSend, Resilio)|Other methods

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⚠️ Attention: Programs like SHAREit or Xender, popular on mobile devices, often install unnecessary software on PCs. Check reviews before using AlternativeTo or Softpedia.

4. Cloud services with local acceleration

If both computers are connected to the internet, you can use cloud services with the feature local synchronization. For example, Google Drive, Dropbox or Syncthing When devices are detected on the same network, files are transferred directly, bypassing remote servers. This speeds up the process and saves bandwidth.

How does this work:

• 📤 Upload the file to the cloud folder on the first PC.
• 📥 On the second PC, the file will automatically download via the local network (if the service supports it) LAN sync).

Syncthing — a free, open-source alternative that works without centralized servers. Configuration:

1. Install Syncthing on both PCs (syncthing.net).
2. Add devices via ID (displayed in the web interface).
3. Create a shared folder and point it to both computers.

5. Transfer via SSH (for advanced users)

For Linux or macOS users (as well as Windows with OpenSSH) a secure method of transmission is available via SSHIt encrypts data and is suitable for sensitive information. Speed ​​depends on CPU power (encryption puts a strain on the processor), but is typically 50-100 Mbps.

Command to copy a file from PC1 to PC2:

scp /path/to/file user@192.168.1.100:/path/destination

For Windows, install OpenSSH Server through Settings → Applications → Additional components. Then use WinSCP for graphical interface or scp V PowerShell.

⚠️ Attention: By default, SSH uses port 22, which may be blocked by an antivirus or firewall. Before transferring, check the port availability with the command telnet 192.168.1.100 22.

6. Alternative methods: QR codes and temporary servers

If standard methods don't work, you can try some unusual solutions:

• 📧 Temporary HTTP server: On the first PC, start the server with the command python -m http.server 8000 (requires Python), and on the second one, open it in the browser http://[IP address]:8000.
• 🔲 Transfer via QR code: Generate a QR code with a link to a file on your local network (e.g. http://192.168.1.100/folder/file.zip) and scan it with a second device.

To generate a QR code in Windows, use PowerShell:

[Reflection.Assembly]::LoadWithPartialName("System.Web")
$qr = New-Object System.Web.UI.WebControls.Image
$qr.ImageUrl = "https://chart.googleapis.com/chart?chs=200x200&cht=qr&chl=http://192.168.1.100/file.zip"
$qr.RenderControl([System.Web.UI.HtmlTextWriter]::new([System.IO.StringWriter]::new()))

Common problems and their solutions

Even with proper configuration, errors can still occur. Here are typical scenarios and how to resolve them:

• 🔌 Devices do not see each other:
  • Make sure both PCs are on the same subnet (e.g. 192.168.1.x).
  • Disable your firewall or add a port exception 139, 445 (SMB) or 21, 22 (FTP/SSH).
  • Make sure that the router mode is disabled. AP Isolation (client isolation).
• 🐢 Slow transmission:
  • Switch to range 5 GHz (less noisy than 2.4 GHz).
  • Use the standard Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) instead of the outdated one 802.11n.
  • Turn off other devices that are consuming bandwidth (for example, streaming 4K video).

⚠️ Attention: If you're using public Wi-Fi (for example, at a cafe), avoid transferring files via unencrypted SMB/FTP. Attackers on the same network could intercept your traffic. In such cases, it's best to use SSH or VPN.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to transfer files between PCs with different operating systems?

Yes, but the methods are different:

• Windows ↔ macOS: Use SMB (on macOS, enable support in System Preferences → Sharing → Files & Folders).
• Windows/Linux ↔ macOS: set up SFTP or NFS.
• Any OS: universal programs like LocalSend or Resilio Sync.

How to transfer files larger than 100 GB?

For large volumes:

1. Split the file into parts using an archiver (for example, 7-Zip with option Split into volumes).
2. Use Wi-Fi Direct or Ethernet (if possible) - they are more stable than the router.
3. For maximum speed, connect via cable (even 100 Mbps (Wi-Fi will be faster for large files).

Should I disable my antivirus when transferring files?

Not necessarily, but:

• Add a folder for sharing in antivirus exclusions (for example, in Kaspersky or ESET).
• If the transmission goes through SMB, temporarily disable firewall antivirus - it can block ports.
• After transferring, please return the settings back.

How to transfer files from PC to PC without a router?

Use direct connection:

1. Create Ad-Hoc network (Windows) or Wi-Fi Hotspot (macOS/Linux).
2. Connect the second PC to the created network.
3. Set up General access or use LocalSend.

Alternative: Connect computers Ethernet cable (speed up to 1 Gbps).

What is the maximum transfer speed for Wi-Fi?

Theoretical limits:

Wi-Fi standard	Max. speed (Mbps)	Real speed (MB/s)
802.11n (Wi-Fi 4)	600	30-50
802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5)	1733	80-120
802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6)	9608	150-200

Actual speed depends on:

• Distances between devices.
• The presence of obstacles (walls, furniture).
• Channel congestion with other devices.