How to transfer a folder from computer to computer via Wi-Fi: all the working methods

Transfer files between computers via Wi-Fi network — a convenient alternative to flash drives and external drives, especially when dealing with large amounts of data. Unlike a wired connection, the wireless method doesn't require physical access to both devices and works even across several rooms. However, not all users know how to properly set up this type of transfer so it works. fast, stable And safe.

In this article we will look at 5 proven methods Transferring folders over Wi-Fi: from standard tools Windows (including HomeGroup (for older versions) to modern cloud solutions and specialized programs. We will pay special attention transfer speed - it can differ by 10 times depending on the selected method and router settingsYou'll also learn how to avoid common mistakes, such as computers not "seeing" each other on the network or files being copied with errors.

1. Transfer via local network (SMB protocol)

The most reliable way to share files between computers on the same Wi-Fi network is to use SMB network protocol (Server Message Block). It is built into Windows and doesn't require any additional software installation. The transfer speed depends on your router's standard: Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) it can reach 300–500 Mbps, but on the outdated one Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) — does not exceed 150 Mbps.

To set up sharing:

• 📁 On the first computer: open Conductor, right-click on the folder, select Properties → Access → ShareIn the drop-down menu, select the user. All and set permissions Reading and writing.
• 🔗 Network setup: go to Control Panel → Network and Sharing Center → Change advanced sharing settings. Turn on Network discovery And File and Printer Sharing for profile Private.
• 🖥️ Connection from a second PC: V Conductor enter in the address bar \\[IP address of the first PC] (For example, \\192.168.1.100) and press Enter.

Make sure both PCs are connected to the same Wi-Fi network|Temporarily disable Windows Firewall (or add an exception for SMB)|Check that SMB 1.0/2.0/3.0 protocol is enabled on both computers (in Turn Windows features on or off)|Use static IP addresses for devices (optional, but recommended)

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Important: If the computers don't see each other, check the settings. working group (must match on both PCs) and disable antivirus, which can block SMB traffic. Also, make sure that the router doesn't assign different subnets to devices (for example, 192.168.0.x And 192.168.1.x).

⚠️ Attention: Protocol SMBv1 vulnerable to attacks (eg EternalBlue). In modern versions of Windows it is disabled by default. Use SMBv2 or SMBv3, which can be enabled through PowerShell command:

Enable-WindowsOptionalFeature -Online -FeatureName "SMB1Protocol" -NoRestart

2. Using an FTP server (for large files)

If you need to transfer folder larger than 10 GB, your local network may be running slowly due to SMB limitations. In this case, FTP server — it's optimized for transferring large files and supports download resumption if the connection is lost. Setting it up doesn't require any advanced knowledge: just install a server program (for example, FileZilla Server) and connect to it from another PC via FTP client (same FileZilla Client or Windows Explorer).

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Download and install FileZilla Server to the computer from which you will transfer files.
2. Specify the port on first launch 21 (standard for FTP) and create a user with a password.
3. In the server settings, add a shared folder and assign permissions (Reading/Recording).
4. On the second computer, connect to the address ftp://[IP address of the first PC] (For example, ftp://192.168.1.100) through Conductor or FileZilla Client.

3. Cloud services: fast sharing without settings

If you need to transfer a folder one-time and without complicated settings, it’s easiest to use cloud storageThis method is even suitable for computers on different networks (for example, if one PC is at work and the other is at home). Popular services include:

• ☁️ Google Drive — to 15 GB free, integration with Windows through Backup and Sync.
• ☁️ Yandex Disk — to 10 GB free, there is a function Public link for fast transmission.
• ☁️ Mega — to 20 GB Free, on-the-fly data encryption.
• ☁️ Dropbox — to 2 GB Free, but convenient for synchronizing folders between devices.

How to transfer a folder via Yandex Disk:

1. Install Yandex Disk on both computers and log in.
2. Drag and drop folder into folder Yandex Disk on the first PC - it will automatically upload to the cloud.
3. On the second PC, open Yandex Disk and wait for synchronization.
4. To speed up the process, disable synchronization of unnecessary files in the program settings.

Google Drive|Yandex Drive|Mega|Dropbox|Other|I don't use it-->

⚠️ Attention: When transferring sensitive data via the cloud, make sure the service supports it. end-to-end encryption (For example, Mega or pCloud Crypto). Standard "server-side" encryption (like Google Drive) does not protect against access by company employees.

4. Direct transfer programs (LocalSend, Snapdrop)

If you are looking for as simple as possible transfer method without registration and settings, pay attention to the programs for direct exchange over a local networkThey operate on a point-to-point basis and do not require an internet connection. Popular solutions:

• 📲 LocalSend - open source, cross-platform (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android).
• 🌐 Snapdrop - web version, works through a browser (suitable for Chrome, Firefox, Edge).
• 💻 Dukto - supports transfer of folders and text messages.

Example of working with LocalSend:

1. Download the program from official website and install on both computers.
2. Launch LocalSend — devices will automatically detect each other on the local network.
3. On the first PC, select the folder, specify the recipient (the second PC), and confirm sending.
4. On the second PC, accept the file and the transfer will begin immediately.

Why might Snapdrop not work?

Snapdrop uses technology WebRTC, which requires browser support. If the transfer doesn't start:

- Update your browser to the latest version.

- Disable VPN or proxy (they may block P2P connections).

- Make sure both devices are connected to the same network (not the router's guest Wi-Fi network).

The advantage of such programs is no file size limits (as opposed to cloud services) and high speed (to 1 Gbps (under ideal conditions). However, for this to work, both computers must be on the same subnet.

5. Transfer via SSH (for advanced users)

If you work with Linux or macOS, or you have installed Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), can be used SSH protocol for secure file transfer. This method is suitable for tech-savvy users, as it requires working with terminalThe main advantage is traffic encryption and the ability to transfer files between different operating systems.

Instructions for Windows (with WSL):

1. Install OpenSSH Server to the sender computer:

   sudo apt update && sudo apt install openssh-server

2. Start the server:

   sudo service ssh start

3. On the second computer, connect via SSH and copy the folder using scp:

   scp -r user@192.168.1.100:/path/to/folder/where/save

For Windows without WSL can be used WinSCP - a graphical client for working with SFTP/SCPIt supports drag-and-drop and visual file management.

⚠️ Attention: By default, SSH uses port 22, which may be blocked by your ISP or router. If the connection fails, check your settings. Port Forwarding on the router or change the SSH port to a non-standard one (for example, 2222).

6. Alternative methods: Bluetooth, Nearby Share, and AirDrop

If your Wi-Fi network is unavailable or unstable, you can use alternative wireless technologiesThey are less versatile, but sometimes they are the only option:

• 📶 Bluetooth: Suitable for transferring small files (up to 50 MB). Speed ​​- up to 3 Mbps (Bluetooth 4.0). In Windows 11 exchange via menu is supported Send → Bluetooth Device.
• 🤝 Nearby Share (Android/Windows): function of Google, works between Android-devices and Windows (installation required) Nearby Share Beta). Speed ​​- up to 10 Mbps.
• 🍎 AirDrop (macOS/iOS): technology Apple for fast transfer between devices Mac, iPhone And iPad. IN Windows works only with additional programs (eg AirDrop for Windows).

The main disadvantage of these methods is limited compatibility and low speed compared to Wi-Fi. For example, transferring a folder of size 1 GB through Bluetooth may take more than an hour.

Comparison of methods: which one to choose?

The choice of transmission method depends on file sizes, operating systems on computers and user skillsBelow is a brief comparison:

For most users, the optimal solution would be local area network (SMB) or LocalSendIf security is important, set it up. FTP with SSL or use SSH. For transfer between different operating systems (eg, Windows And macOS) cloud services are the most convenient or Snapdrop.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you need to create one for this access point on one of the computers or use the mode Wi-Fi Direct (if supported by the adapter). Windows this is done through Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile HotspotThe speed with this connection is lower than through a router, but for transferring files up to 1–2 GB that's enough.

Why is Wi-Fi transmission speed lower than cable?

The wireless network is susceptible interference (from other devices, walls, microwaves) and has standard limitations. For example:

• Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) — to 150 Mbps in practice.
• Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) — to 500–800 Mbps.
• Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) — to 1–2 Gbps.

In addition, speed is affected by router settings (channel, bandwidth) and network congestion. For maximum speed, use 5 GHz and a channel with minimal interference (for example, 36 or 149).

How to protect transferred files from interception?

If you transmit data through local network, use:

• SMB 3.0+ with encryption (included in Group policy or registry).
• FTP with SSL/TLS (setting in FileZilla Server).
• SSH/SCP — the most reliable option.

Avoid SMBv1 And FTP without encryption - they are easy to intercept with the help of Wireshark or Ettercap.

What to do if computers can't see each other on the network?

Check the following:

1. Both PCs are connected to one network (not to the guest).
2. Included network discovery (Control Panel → Network and Sharing Center).
3. Disabled firewall or exceptions added for SMB/FTP.
4. The devices are assigned IP addresses from the same subnet (For example, 192.168.1.x).
5. Client isolation is disabled on the router (AP Isolation or Client Isolation).

If the problem persists, try connecting via IP address directly (for example, \\192.168.1.100).

Is it possible to transfer files between Windows and macOS?

Yes, the following are suitable for this:

• SMB: macOS supports connection to network folders Windows through Finder → Connect to Server → smb://[IP address].
• FTP/SSH: universal protocols, work on both systems.
• Cloud services: Google Drive, Dropbox and others.
• LocalSend/Snapdrop: cross-platform solutions.

For AirDrop additional software will be required Windows (For example, AirDrop for Windows), but the stability of operation is not guaranteed.