Transferring files between computers via Wi-Fi: all working methods

Transfer files between computers via Wi-Fi — a challenge every user faces. Whether you want to transfer a large photo archive, send a document to a colleague, or sync projects between your home and work PCs, cables are long gone. But how can you do this as quickly, securely, and without losing quality as possible?

In this article we will look at all current methods — from standard tools Windows And macOS to specialized programs and cloud services. You will learn how to set up local network, use FTP, SSH or even QR codes for instant transmission. And also - what Hidden router settings can speed up data exchange by 2-3 timesif you work with large files (videos, backups, disk images).

Important: If you need to transfer files between Windows And macOS, Linux or even Android, there are solutions here too. We won't limit ourselves to a single operating system—the article covers cross-platform scenarios.

1. Transfer via local network (SMB/NFS)

The most reliable and universal way is to use SMB protocols (for Windows) or NFS (for Linux/macOS). It doesn't require an internet connection, runs at high speeds, and supports large files. The only downside is that you'll have to tinker with the settings a bit.

How does it work? One computer acts as servers (opens access to the folder), and the second one - client (connects to it). The transfer speed depends on your Wi-Fi standard:

• 📶 Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) — up to 150 Mbit/s (actually ~50–70 Mbit/s)
• 📶 Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) — up to 867 Mbit/s (actually ~200–400 Mbit/s)
• 📶 Wi-Fi 6/6E (802.11ax) — up to 2400 Mbit/s (actually ~500–900 Mbit/s)

Instructions for Windows (SMB):

1. On server Open PC Control Panel → Network Settings → Advanced Sharing Settings.
2. Turn on Network discovery And File and Printer Sharing.
3. Right click on the folder you want to open, select Properties → Access → Share.
4. On client Enter PC in Explorer \\[server_IP_address] (For example, \\192.168.1.100).

⚠️ Attention: If the computers can't see each other, check that both are connected to one network (not to the guest!) and temporarily disable the firewall. Also, make sure that both PCs Working group called the same (by default - WORKGROUP).

For macOS (AFP/SMB):

On a Mac it's easiest to use AFP (Apple Filing Protocol). Open System Preferences → Sharing, turn on File sharing and add the folder. On the other Mac, connect via Finder → Go → Connect to Server (enter afp://[IP address]).

Both PCs are on the same network|Firewall is disabled|Correct folder permissions|IP addresses are static (not DHCP)-->

2. Using an FTP server (FileZilla, vsftpd)

If you need remote transmission (for example, between the office and home) or work with Linux servers, FTP — is the ideal option. It supports resume downloading, which is critical for large files (>4 GB).

For Windows, the easiest way is to use FileZilla Server:

• 💻 Download and install FileZilla Server (for free).
• 🔧 Set up a user and folder in Edit → Users.
• 🌐 Connect from another PC using any FTP client (for example, WinSCP or Total Commander) at the address ftp://[IP address].

For Linux/macOS built-in will do vsftpd:

sudo apt install vsftpd # Installation (Debian/Ubuntu)
sudo systemctl start vsftpd

Edit the config /etc/vsftpd.conf, adding:

anonymous_enable=NO
local_enable=YES
write_enable=YES

Restart the service: sudo systemctl restart vsftpd.

⚠️ Attention: FTP transmits passwords in clear text! For security, use SFTP (SSH + FTP) or configure FTPS (FTP + SSL). In FileZilla Server this is done in the section SSL/TLS settings.

3. Cloud services (Google Drive, Dropbox, Yandex Disk)

If the files are not too large (<20 GB) and your internet speed allows it, cloud storage — the easiest way. They work on any device and support versioning and do not require network configuration.

Comparison of popular services:

• 📁 Google Drive — 15 GB free, Gmail integration, speed depends on your internet provider.
• 📁 Dropbox — 2GB free, but better sync for teamwork.
• 📁 Yandex Disk — 10 GB free, high speed in Russia.
• 📁 Mega — 20 GB free, data encryption.

How to transfer a file:

1. Upload your file to the cloud via the web interface or desktop application.
2. Generate public access link (in Google Drive - "Share → Copy link").
3. Send the link to the second user via email or messenger.

⚠️ Attention: Free cloud service plans often limit upload/download speeds. For example, Yandex Disk Files larger than 1 GB may slow down on a free account. For larger files, it's better to use a local network or FTP.

4. Direct transfer via Wi-Fi Direct (Windows 10/11, macOS)

Wi-Fi Direct Allows you to connect devices directly, without a router. This is useful if you don't have internet access or need to transfer data directly. Speeds are comparable to regular Wi-Fi, but setup is simpler.

For Windows 10/11:

1. Open Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile Hotspot.
2. Turn on Allow use of my internet connection (even if there is no internet).
3. On the second PC, connect to the created network as if it were a regular Wi-Fi network.
4. Use \\[IP address of the first PC] in Explorer to access files.

For macOS:

On Mac, turn on Sharing → Bluetooth PAN (yes, this works for Wi-Fi Direct too!) Then, on the second device, connect to the network created by your Mac. To transfer files, use Airdrop or AFP, as described in the first section.

Why might Wi-Fi Direct not work?

If the Wi-Fi Direct adapter is disabled on one of your PCs (in Device Manager), or the drivers are out of date. Also, some routers block direct connections in their settings (disable the "AP Isolation" or "Client Isolation" option in the router's admin panel).

5. Specialized programs (LocalSend, Snapdrop, Resilio Sync)

If standard methods seem complicated, use free programs, which automate the process. They often support transfer between different operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android) and do not require in-depth knowledge of networks.

Top 3 utilities:

• 📲 LocalSend - open source code, works via local network or internet, supports QR codes for quick connection. Project website.
• 🌐 Snapdrop — a web service (no need to install anything!), works through a browser. Open snapdrop.net on both PCs and drag and drop files.
• 🔄 Resilio Sync - to synchronize folders between devices in real time (analog Dropbox, but without clouds).

How to use LocalSend:

1. Install the program on both PCs (Windows, macOS or Linux).
2. Turn on Wi-Fi or Ethernet (devices must be on the same network).
3. On one PC, select the file and click Send, on the second one, confirm receipt.

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

If you work with Linux or macOS, SSH — one of the most secure and flexible methods. It allows not only file transfer but also remote PC control via a terminal.

The basic command to copy a file is:

scp /path/to/file user@[IP address]:/path/on/remote/PC

Example:

scp ~/Documents/project.zip user@192.168.1.101:/home/user/Downloads/

For Windows you will need:

1. Install OpenSSH Server through Settings → Applications → Additional components.
2. Enable SSH service: services.msc → OpenSSH Authentication Agent (to launch).
3. Use WinSCP or PuTTY to connect.

⚠️ Attention: By default, SSH uses port 22If you have a public IP address, close this port on your router to prevent attacks. This isn't critical for a local network.

7. Alternative methods: QR codes, Bluetooth, and AirDrop

If Wi-Fi fails or the files are small (<100 MB), you can use:

• 📱 QR codes - generate a code with a link to a file in the cloud (for example, via Google Drive) and scan it on the second PC.
• 🔵 Bluetooth — slow (up to 3 Mbps), but works without a network. Turn on Bluetooth on both PCs and send the file via Control Panel → Devices.
• 🍎 AirDrop — only for macOS/iOS. Open Finder → Go → AirDrop and drag the files onto the recipient's icon.

For Android And Windows There is an analogue of AirDrop - a program Nearby Share from Google. It allows you to transfer files between devices via Wi-Fi Direct or Bluetooth.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

🔹 Why is Wi-Fi transfer speed lower than cable?

Wi-Fi always loses to a wired connection due to interference, distance, and limitations of the standard. For example, even on Wi-Fi 6 the actual speed rarely exceeds 500–600 Mbps, while Gigabit Ethernet provides a stable 940 Mbps. To improve speed:

• Use range 5 GHz (less busy).
• Reduce the distance between your PC and the router.
• Disconnect other devices from the network during the transfer.

🔹 Is it possible to transfer files between a PC and a phone via Wi-Fi?

Yes! Use:

• LocalSend (cross-platform solution).
• Snapdrop (via browser).
• FTP server on PC + ES File Explorer or FX File Explorer on the phone.

For Android will also work ADB over Wi-Fi (requires USB debugging enabled).

🔹 How to transfer files >100 GB?

For such volumes:

1. Use local network (SMB/FTP) - it's faster than clouds.
2. If your Wi-Fi speed is insufficient, connect your PC to the router. via cable (at least one of them).
3. Split the file into parts using an archiver (7-Zip, WinRAR) with option Split into volumes.

Cloud services (eg Google Drive) limit file downloads to >750 GB per day on the free plan.

🔹 Should I disable my antivirus when transferring files?

Not necessarily, but:

• Some antiviruses (Kaspersky, ESET) scan network traffic, which can slow down transmission.
• If the files are large (>10 GB), temporarily add the source folder to Exceptions antivirus.
• Never disable your antivirus completely when transferring files from untrusted sources!

🔹 Is it possible to transfer files between PCs on different networks?

Yes, but you will need:

1. Cloud service (the easiest way).
2. VPN (For example, Hamachi or ZeroTier) to create a virtual local area network.
3. Port forwarding on the router (for FTP/SSH), but this is not secure without proper configuration.

Best suited for home use ZeroTier - It creates an encrypted network between devices, even if they are in different countries.