How to transfer files from one computer to another via Wi-Fi: all the working methods

Transfer files between computers via Wi-Fi — a convenient alternative to flash drives, external drives, and cables. This is especially true when it comes to large files (videos, archives, disk images) or regular data exchange between devices on the same network. But how can this be done quickly, safely, and without loss of quality? There are plenty of options, from built-in tools Windows to third-party programs and cloud services.

In this article we will analyze All current methods of file transfer over Wi-Fi in 2026, including their pros, cons, and setup nuances. You'll learn how to set up a local network, use FTP server, cloud storage or specialized utilities like LocalSend or SnapdropAnd also, how to avoid common mistakes when exchanging data over a wireless network.

Important: If you work with sensitive data (documents, passwords, financial information), please refer to the sections on encryption and transmission security. Not all methods are created equal!

1. Preparing computers for file transfer via Wi-Fi

Before you begin exchanging data, make sure both devices are network-ready. Here are the minimum requirements:

• 📶 Both computers are connected to one Wi-Fi network (or one distributes the network to another).
• 🔄 On Windows included network discovery (more on this below).
• 🔒 Firewalls or network security software blocking local traffic are disabled (if you use third-party antivirus software).
• 📂 There is enough disk space for temporary storage of files (important for large broadcasts).

If computers cannot see each other on the network, check:

1. On Windows 10/11 go to Settings → Network and Internet → Wi-Fi (or Ethernet) and make sure the network profile is set as "Private", not "Public".
2. Open Control Panel → Network and Internet → Network and Sharing Center → Advanced Sharing Settings and turn it on network discovery, file and printer sharing, and also automatic configuration of network devices.

For macOS check the settings in System Preferences → Sharing and activate the option File SharingOn . Linux (For example, Ubuntu) package installation may be required samba via terminal:

sudo apt install samba

2. Method 1: Transfer via local network (SMB/Shared Folders)

The most reliable and universal method is to use shared folders according to protocol SMB (Server Message Block). Works on all versions Windows, macOS And Linux, does not require the Internet (only a local network) and allows you to transfer files of any size.

Instructions for Windows 10/11:

1. Create a folder you want to share (eg. C:\Transfer).
2. Right-click on it → Properties → Access → Share.
3. Select a user "All" (or specify a specific one) and click Share.
4. Go to the tab "Safety" → "Change" → add user "All" and give him rights Full Access.

Now from another computer:

1. Open Conductor and enter in the address bar \\[IP address of the first PC] (For example, \\192.168.1.100).
2. If you are prompted for login/password, use the account details of the first PC (or guest access, if configured).
3. Copy files to or from the shared folder.

Make sure the computers' IP addresses are on the same subnet (e.g. 192.168.1.x)|Disable your VPN—it may be blocking local traffic|Check that folder sharing is enabled on the target PC|If it doesn't connect, reboot your router

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For macOS:

1. IN Finder click Go → Connect to server (or Cmd+K).
2. Enter smb://[IP-address_of_PC] and connect.

3. Method 2: Using an FTP server (FileZilla, built-in IIS)

If needed remote transmission (for example, between different networks) or you frequently exchange files, setting FTP servers — the optimal solution. Can be used as built-in tools (IIS For Windows), as well as third-party programs like FileZilla Server.

Instructions for FileZilla Server:

1. Download and install FileZilla Server With official website.
2. When installing, select "Install as service" (install as a service) and start the server.
3. In the control panel (127.0.0.1:14147) create a user and specify the folder for access.
4. On the second computer, connect via FileZilla Client or Conductor (ftp://[IP address]).

For Windows (integrated IIS):

1. Enable the component FTP server through Control Panel → Programs → Turn Windows features on or off.
2. Set up your site and FTP publishing in IIS Manager.

Local Area Network (SMB)|FTP/FTPS|Cloud Services (Google Drive, Dropbox)|Specialized Programs (LocalSend, Snapdrop)|Other Method

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Important! FTP transfers data without encryptionFor confidential files, use SFTP (via SSH) or FTPS (FTP + SSL). In FileZilla Server This is configured in the section SSL/TLS Settings.

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

If the computers are not on the same network or you need to transfer files via the InternetThe easiest way is to use cloud storage. The downside is storage space limitations (usually 5–15 GB for free) and dependence on internet speed.

How to transfer files via Google Drive:

1. Upload files to Google Drive from the first computer.
2. Right-click on the file → Share → select "Public Access" and copy the link.
3. Send the link to the second user (via email, messenger, etc.).
4. On the second computer, follow the link and download the files.

Alternatives:

• 📁 Dropbox — convenient for automatic synchronization of folders between devices.
• ☁️ Yandex Disk — free up to 10 GB, mail integration.
• 🌍 OneDrive — built in Windows 10/11, 5 GB free.

To speed up loading large files:

• Use browser Google Chrome - it is better optimized for working with Google Drive.
• If the speed is slow, try downloading files at night (less load on the provider's network).
• For Dropbox turn on the option "LAN Sync" (LAN synchronization) if the computers are on the same Wi-Fi network.

scp -r /path/to/folder user@192.168.1.100:/home/user/