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

Transfer files between devices via Wi-Fi — one of the most convenient ways to exchange data without using wires or external drives. This is especially important when you need to quickly transfer a large amount of information (for example, video in 4K, project archives or a photo collection), and there is no USB cable or flash drive at hand. Unlike Bluetooth, which is limited by speed and range, Wi-Fi transmission Allows you to send gigabytes of data in minutes—if configured correctly.

In this article we will look at All current methods for transferring files via Wi-Fi between a PC and a laptop, including built-in tools Windows 10/11, macOS And Linux, as well as specialized programs and cloud services. We'll pay special attention to security nuances (for example, how to avoid data interception over open networks) and speed optimization. If you've previously encountered issues like connection drops or slow transfer speeds, you'll find solutions here.

1. Built-in Windows tools: Nearby Sharing

The easiest way for users Windows 10/11 — function "Short-range transmission"** (eng. Nearby Sharing). It works on the principle AirDrop V macOS, but through Wi-Fi Direct or Bluetooth (for device detection). The main advantage is that you don't need to install additional software or configure your router.

The function supports transfer of files up to 1 GB (V Windows 11 limit increased to 2 GB), but the speed depends on the version Wi-Fi adapterFor example, on Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) files are transferred 2-3 times faster than Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n).

  • ✅ Pros: Built into the system, does not require the Internet, data encryption.
  • ❌ Cons: works only between devices on Windows 10/11, file size limit.
  • ⚙️ Requirements: Both devices must be on the same network or connected to the same router (or use Wi-Fi Direct).

How to enable and use:

  1. Open Settings → System → General Features.
  2. Turn on the switch Short-range transmission.
  3. Select visibility mode: Everything is nearby or Only my devices.
  4. On the second device, repeat steps 1–3.
  5. Right-click on the file → Share → Short-range transmission and select the target laptop.
⚠️ Attention: If the devices do not detect each other, check that the wireless network is enabled on both PCs. Bluetooth (needed for initial pairing) and Wi-Fi. Also make sure that your antivirus (for example, Kaspersky or Avast) does not block the function in the background.
📊 Which file transfer method do you use most often?
By cable
Via a flash drive
Via Wi-Fi
Cloud services (Google Drive, Yandex.Disk)

2. Local network via FTP server (for large files)

If you need to transfer files of a volume more than 2 GB (for example, a disk image or video in 8K), the best option is to create FTP server on one of the devices. This method works on all OS (Windows, macOS, Linux) and does not require third-party programs (the built-in tools are sufficient). The transfer speed is limited only by the capabilities of your Wi-Fi router and network cards.

For Windows the easiest to use IIS built-in FTP server (available in versions Pro/Enterprise) or free utilities like FileZilla ServerOn . macOS And Linux you can get by with standard commands in Terminal.

Enable IIS component via Control Panel → Programs → Turn Windows features on or off

Launch IIS Manager and add a new FTP site

Set up authentication (login/password) and folder permissions

Open port 21 in Windows Firewall

Connect from another device at ftp://[PC IP address]-->

Step-by-step instructions for Windows (no third-party software required):

  1. Open Control Panel → Programs and Features → Turn Windows features on or off.
  2. Check the box next to Internet Information Services → FTP Server and press OK.
  3. After installation, open IIS Manager (find via search).
  4. In the right panel, select Add an FTP site, specify the sharing folder and set up authentication.
  5. On the second device, open Conductor and enter in the address bar ftp://[your PC's IP address] (you can find out the IP using the command ipconfig V CMD).
operating system How to set up FTP Max. transfer rate
Windows 10/11 Pro Built-in IIS or FileZilla Server To 1 Gbps (depending on Wi-Fi)
macOS Team sudo -s launchctl load -w /System/Library/LaunchDaemons/ftp.plist V Terminal To 800 Mbps
Linux (Ubuntu) sudo apt install vsftpd + config settings To 900 Mbps
⚠️ Attention: FTP transfers data without encryption by default. For security, use SFTP (port 22) or customize FTPS (FTP over SSL/TLS). In FileZilla Server this is done in the section SSL/TLS Settings.

3. Shared folders on a local network (SMB)

Another reliable method is to set up shared folder through protocol SMB (Server Message Block). This method is suitable for regularly exchanging files between devices on the same network (for example, at home or in the office). Unlike FTP, SMB better integrated into Windows and supports encryption (starting from Windows 10 1709).

Transfer speed by SMB higher than by FTP, especially if both devices are connected to the router via 5 GHz or through Wi-Fi 6For example, copying a movie of volume 20 GB It will take about 10-15 minutes (at speed 200–300 Mbps).

How to set up a shared folder in Windows:

  1. Create a folder (eg. C:\Exchange) and right-click on it → Properties → Access.
  2. Click Share and select the user (or All for easier access).
  3. In the section Security set up permissions (for example, Full access for selected users).
  4. On the second device, open Conductor and enter in the address bar \\[PC IP address]\Exchange.

1. The protocol is enabled on both PCs SMB 1.0 (V Windows 11 It is disabled by default due to vulnerabilities).

2. The firewall allows traffic on ports 445 (SMB) and 139 (NetBIOS).

3. The antivirus does not block network access (add the folder to the exceptions).-->

For macOS and Linux:

  • macOS: Connect via Finder → Go → Connect to Server (enter smb://[IP address]).
  • Linux: Use the command sudo mount -t cifs //[IP address]/Share /mnt/share -o username=name,password=password.

4. Programs for transferring files via Wi-Fi

If the built-in tools are not suitable (for example, you need to transfer files between Windows And Android (or automate the process), specialized programs come to the rescue. They offer additional features: encryption, resumption of transmission, folder synchronization and even chat for messaging.

Below is a comparison of popular utilities:

Program Platform Max. speed Peculiarities
LocalSend Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS To 500 Mbps Open source, encrypted, no size limits
Snapdrop Any (works in browser) To 300 Mbps No installation required, P2P connection
Feem Windows, macOS, Android, iOS To 400 Mbps Transfer via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, built-in chat
Droid Transfer Windows + Android To 200 Mbps Specialized in exchange with Android devices

How to use LocalSend (free AirDrop alternative):

  1. Download the program from official website and install on both devices.
  2. Launch LocalSend and make sure both devices are connected to the same network Wi-Fi.
  3. On the first device, select the file and press Send.
  4. A notification will appear on the second device - confirm reception.
⚠️ Attention: Some programs (eg Feem) create their own network Wi-Fi Direct, which may conflict with your main internet connection. If you lose internet access after transferring files, reboot Wi-Fi adapter or router.
What should I do if the program doesn't see the second device?

1. Make sure that both devices are enabled. Wi-Fi and they are connected to one network (even if the program uses P2P).

2. Turn off VPN or proxy - they can block local traffic.

3. In the program settings, select the mode LAN (if any).

4. Restart the program or device.

5. Cloud services: when Wi-Fi is unstable

If direct transmission by Wi-Fi If it works unstably (for example, due to a weak signal or interference), an alternative option is to use cloud storageThis method is suitable for transferring files between devices on different networks (for example, sending a file from work to a home laptop). The downside is that it depends on internet speed and the limits of free plans.

Comparison of popular services:

  • 📁 Google Drive: 15 GB free, integration with Windows/macOS through Backup and Sync.
  • ☁️ Yandex.Disk: 10 GB free, high download speed in Russia.
  • 🔵 OneDrive: 5GB free, deep integration with Windows 10/11.
  • 📦 Dropbox: 2GB free, but high sync speed.

How to transfer files via Google Drive:

  1. Upload the file to Google Drive from the first device.
  2. Right-click on the file → Share → enter the email of the second device.
  3. On the second device, open the email with the link or go to General access on Disk.

6. Transfer via SSH (for advanced users)

If you work with Linux or macOS, the most secure way to transfer files is the protocol SSH (Secure Shell). It encrypts data and allows you to control a remote device via the command line. For Windows you will need a client like PuTTY or built-in OpenSSH (available from Windows 10 1809).

Transfer speed by SSH comparable to FTP, but with the advantage of full encryptionThis method is ideal for transferring confidential data (such as databases or documents).

How to transfer a file via SSH:

  1. On the target device (Linux/macOS) enable SSH server: 
    sudo systemctl enable --now ssh
  2. Find out the IP address of the device using the command ifconfig (macOS/Linux) or ipconfig (Windows).
  3. From the source device, connect via SSH and copy the file: 
    scp /path/to/file user@[IP address]:/path/on/device

Example for Windows (using OpenSSH):

  1. Enable the component OpenSSH client V Settings → Applications → Additional components.
  2. Open PowerShell and run the command: 
    scp C:\Users\Name\Documents\file.txt user@192.168.1.100:/home/user/
⚠️ Attention: By default SSH uses the port 22If you have configured firewall (for example, UFW V Linux), make sure the port is open: 
sudo ufw allow 22

7. Alternative methods: QR codes and web servers

If standard methods don't work, you can use unusual but effective solutions:

  • 🔗 Transfer via QR code: Services like QR File Transfer generate a QR code for the file. The second device scans it and downloads the file. Suitable for small data (up to 50 MB).
  • 🌐 Local web server: A mini-server is launched on one device (for example, via python -m http.server 8000), and the second device downloads files via a local link http://[IP address]:8000.
  • 📡 Wi-Fi Direct + FTP: Some routers (eg. ASUS RT-AX88U) support the regime Wi-Fi Direct, allowing you to connect to them as an access point without the Internet. In this case, you can configure FTP server on one of the devices.

How to run a web server for file transfer (without installing software):

  1. On the device with the files, open Command line (Windows) or Terminal (macOS/Linux).
  2. Go to the folder with files and start the server: 
    cd C:\path\to\folder

    python -m http.server 8000

  3. On the second device, open the browser and enter http://[IP address of the first device]:8000.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about transferring files over Wi-Fi

❓ Why is the transfer speed via Wi-Fi lower than via cable?

Speed Wi-Fi depends on many factors: network standard (Wi-Fi 4/5/6), channel load, distance to the router and interference (for example, from other devices or microwaves). By cable (Ethernet) The speed is more stable because there is no signal loss. To speed up Wi-Fi transfers:

  • Switch to range 5 GHz (less busy than 2.4 GHz).
  • Use the standard Wi-Fi 6 (if supported by the router and devices).
  • Place the router closer to the devices or use repeater.
❓ Is it possible to transfer files via Wi-Fi without a router?

Yes, there are two ways to do this:

  1. Wi-Fi Direct: Creates a direct connection between devices (for example, via LocalSend or built-in functions Windows/macOS).
  2. Ad-hoc network: IN Windows You can create a temporary network through Command line: 
    netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode=allow ssid=MyNetwork key=12345678

    netsh wlan start hostednetwork

In both cases, the speed will be lower than through a router, but for transferring files up to 1–2 GB that's enough.

❓ How do I transfer files between Windows and macOS?

The best ways to share cross-platform:

  • SMB: On macOS connect via Finder → Connect to Server → smb://[PC IP address].
  • FTP: Set up FileZilla Server on Windows and connect with macOS through Cyberduck or Terminal.
  • LocalSend: Cross-platform program with encryption.

Avoid AirDrop - it only works between devices Apple.

❓ Is it safe to transfer files over an open Wi-Fi network (for example, in a cafe)?

Transfer files via open network (without a password) is risky because your data can be intercepted. To protect yourself:

  • Use encrypted protocols (SFTP, SSH or HTTPS for the web server).
  • Set up VPN on both devices (for example, WireGuard or OpenVPN).
  • For FTP/SMB turn on guest access without a password only for the duration of the transfer.

Best suited for public networks LocalSend (with encryption) or cloud services with two-factor authentication.

❓ How do I transfer files larger than 100 GB?

For large amounts of data (100+ GB) are optimal:

  1. Local network via SMB/FTP: Set up a shared folder or FTP server and transfer files in parts (for example, archives via 30–50 GB).
  2. External hard drive: Connect HDD/SSD to a router with a USB port and deploy it on it FTP server (many routers, for example TP-Link Archer AX6000, support this function).
  3. Direct Wi-Fi connection (Ad-hoc): Create an access point on one device and connect the second one directly (without a router).

Cloud services are not suitable for such volumes due to limits and low download speeds.

📖 Read also

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