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

Transfer files between laptops via Wi-Fi — a task that every second user faces. Some are trying to upload vacation photos, others need to urgently hand over a work project to a colleague, and still others simply want to avoid unnecessary cables and flash drives. But how can you do this quickly, safely, and without losing quality? Spoiler: there are more options than you think.

In this article we will look at all current methods Wireless data transfer—from creating a local network to using specialized applications. You'll learn which method is the fastest, which is the most reliable, and which is suitable even for gigabyte-sized videos. And no, we're not just talking about the standard "folder sharing" feature in Windows. Ready? Let's get started.

1. Local network via Wi-Fi: the classic method for Windows and macOS

The most universal method that works on any laptop is creation local network via Wi-Fi. It doesn't require internet, is suitable for large files, and provides high transfer speeds (up to 100-300 Mbps (Depending on the router). The downside is that you'll have to dig around in the settings a bit.

On Windows 10/11 the algorithm is as follows:

1. Open Control Panel → Network and Internet → Network and Sharing Center.
2. Select Change advanced sharing options.
3. Turn on network discovery and file sharing for the Private profile.
4. Right-click on the folder you want to share and select Properties → Access → Share.

On macOS the shorter way: System Preferences → Sharing, where you need to turn on File sharing and add a folder. But there's a catch: if you have laptops of different brands (e.g. MacBook and Lenovo), manual configuration of the SMB protocol in the terminal may be required.

• ✅ Pros: no file size limits, works offline, high speed.
• ❌ Cons: Requires configuration, possible access rights issues.

Make sure both laptops are connected to the same Wi-Fi network|Disable the firewall during the transfer|Use the same protocol (SMB for Windows/macOS)|Check that the IP addresses of the laptops are in the same subnet (e.g. 192.168.1.x)

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2. FTP server: for advanced users and large volumes

If you need to transfer tens of gigabytes (for example, a system backup or 4K video), a regular shared folder can lag. This is where FTP server — a protocol that was originally created for transferring large files. The speed is limited only by the capabilities of your Wi-Fi (up to 500 Mbps on Wi-Fi 6).

The easiest way to deploy FTP is to use a program FileZilla Server (Windows) or built-in FTP in macOS (via terminal). Instructions for Windows:

1. Download and install FileZilla Server.
2. Set the port (default 21), login and password.
3. Specify the folder to access.
4. On the second laptop, connect via an FTP client (for example, FileZilla Client) to ftp://[IP address of the first laptop].

For macOS the command is enough:

sudo -s launchctl load -w /System/Library/LaunchDaemons/ftp.plist

But remember: FTP transmits passwords in cleartext. If the network is untrusted, use SFTP (SSH + FTP).

3. Cloud services: simple, but with limitations

If both laptops have internet access, the easiest way is to upload files to cloud (Google Drive, Yandex.Disk, Dropbox) and share the link. This method is suitable for small files (up to 10-15 GB, depends on the service) and when the Internet speed allows.

Advantages:

• 🔄 Automatic synchronization between devices.
• 🔒 Data encryption during transmission.
• 📱 Access from any device (even a smartphone).

Flaws:

• 🐢 Download speed limitation (especially on mobile internet).
• 💰 Paid for volumes over 15-50 GB.
• 🔍 Risk of data leakage (if the link falls into the wrong hands).

To transfer a folder via Google Drive:

1. Upload files to a folder on Drive.
2. Right click → Share → Copy link.
3. On the second laptop, open the link and download the files.

Google Drive|Yandex.Disk|Dropbox|iCloud|Other-->

⚠️ Warning: If you are sharing sensitive data (documents, passwords, financial information), be sure to set a time limit on access to the link and disable downloading for others.

4. AirDrop (for macOS and iOS) and Nearby Share (for Windows/Android)

For equipment owners Apple there is an exclusive tool - AirDropIt allows you to transfer files between MacBook, iPhone, and iPad at a speed of up to 10 MB/s (near 80 Mbps) without any additional settings. The main requirement is that both devices must support Wi-Fi Direct and be located at a distance of up to 9 meters.

How to use:

1. Open Finder → Go → AirDrop.
2. Select the file and drag it to the second laptop's name in the AirDrop window.
3. Receive the file on the second device.

For Windows And Android analogue - Nearby Share (previously called Fast Share). It works similarly, but the speed is lower (3-5 MB/s). To enable:

On Windows: Install the Nearby Share Beta app from the Microsoft Store.
On Android: Activate in Settings → Connected devices → Nearby Share.

Why doesn't AirDrop see the second MacBook?

Most often, the issue lies in firewall settings or that one of the laptops is using a VPN. Also, check that Bluetooth is enabled—AirDrop first establishes a Bluetooth connection and then switches to Wi-Fi to transfer files.

5. P2P apps: fast transfer without settings

If you don't want to mess around with network settings or clouds, we'll come to the rescue P2P applications (peer-to-peer). They create a direct connection between laptops via Wi-Fi, bypassing the router. Popular options:

• 🚀 Send Anywhere — generates a 6-digit code for connection.
• 🔗 Snapdrop — works via browser (no need to install).
• ⚡ LocalSend - open source, no size restrictions.

Example of working with Snapdrop:

1. Open the website on both laptops snapdrop.net.
2. Drag the file into the browser window on the first laptop.
3. A notification about an incoming file will appear on the second laptop - confirm receipt.

The speed in such services reaches 5-10 MB/s (depends on Wi-Fi), and the main advantage is no need to set up a network or registerBut there is a risk: some apps (like ShareIt) have been caught collecting user data.

6. Wi-Fi Direct: Direct connection without a router

Few people know, but modern laptops support Wi-Fi Direct — a technology that allows you to connect directly, without the need for a router. This is useful if you're in a place without internet access (for example, on a train or in the countryside). The speed is comparable to a local network (150-200 Mbps).

How to enable on Windows:

1. Open Settings → Network and Internet → Wi-Fi.
2. Select Wi-Fi Direct (may be called "Connect to device").
3. On the second laptop, find the network with the name of the first device and connect.

On macOS This function is hidden deeper: you need to use Terminal and the command:

networksetup -setairportpower en0 on
networksetup -createNetwork "MyDirectNet" password123

Once connected, you can use any transfer method (FTP, folder sharing, etc.).

⚠️ Please note: Wi-Fi Direct consumes significantly more power than a standard router connection. If you're using battery power, monitor your battery level—it can drop by 20-30% after an hour of active streaming.

Comparison of methods: which one to choose?

To avoid confusion, here's a quick summary:

• 🏆 For maximum speed: FTP server or local network (SMB).
• 🔒 For safety: SFTP or encrypted cloud.
• ⚡ For a one-time transfer: P2P applications (Snapdrop, LocalSend).
• 🍎 For the Apple ecosystem: AirDrop.
• 🌐 Without a router: Wi-Fi Direct.

If you need to transfer 1-2 files size up to 1 GB, the easiest way is to use Snapdrop or AirDrop. For large volumes (movies, disk images, backups) configure FTP or local network. And if it is important confidentiality, choose SFTP or a cloud with limited access.

And remember: Wi-Fi transmission speed will always be lower than the theoretical maximum of your router. For example, if you have Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) with the stated 867 Mbps, the actual file transfer speed will be 300-500 Mbps due to protocol overhead.

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

Is it possible to transfer files between laptops if they are connected to different Wi-Fi networks?

Yes, but you need to use it for that. cloud services (Google Drive, Dropbox) or P2P applications Like Send Anywhere, which operate over the internet. A local network or Wi-Fi Direct won't work in this case—they require a shared network.

Why is Wi-Fi transmission speed lower than cable?

Wi-Fi uses a radio channel, which is susceptible to interference, and also wastes some bandwidth on overhead (encryption, packet acknowledgement). Cables don't suffer from such losses. For example, gigabit Ethernet (1000 Mbps) really gives 900-950 Mbps, and Wi-Fi 5 (867 Mbps) - only 400-600 Mbps.

How do I transfer files from one laptop to another if one of them doesn't have Wi-Fi?

In this case, there are three options:

1. Use Ethernet cable (direct connection or via router).
2. Create access point on a laptop with Wi-Fi and connect the second laptop to it via cable.
3. Take advantage Bluetooth (slow, but good enough for small files).

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

Yes, but there are some nuances:

• For local network On macOS, you need to enable support SMB (in the terminal: sudo smbutil statshares -a).
• AirDrop Only works between Apple devices.
• P2P applications (Snapdrop, Send Anywhere) and FTP universal.

How to speed up file transfers over Wi-Fi?

Several working methods:

• Switch to range 5 GHz (less interference).
• Disconnect other devices from the network during the transfer.
• Use archiving (ZIP/RAR) - one large file is copied faster than thousands of small ones.
• Update the Wi-Fi adapter drivers on both laptops.