Creating a local network between two laptops is a practical solution for quickly transferring large amounts of data, collaborating on documents, or even playing online games without the need for external storage. Modern operating systems, such as Windows 10 And Windows 11, provide built-in tools that let you set up a connection in minutes using just a wireless adapter. You won't need to buy additional cables or complex network equipment if both devices are within range of the same router or connected directly.
The main difficulty users encounter isn't the connection process itself, but rather the proper configuration of security profiles and access permissions. It often happens that devices technically see each other, but the system blocks file sharing for security reasons. Understanding how it works local area network (LAN) Setting up and sharing settings will help you avoid most errors and quickly establish a stable connection. In this article, we'll cover every setup step, from checking drivers to forwarding folders.
Before starting configuration, make sure the Wi-Fi adapters on both computers are working properly and enabled. This is a basic requirement, without which further steps are pointless. It's also worth checking that both devices have the latest network card drivers installed, as outdated software may not work correctly with new encryption protocols.
Preparing equipment and checking network settings
The first step is to ensure physical connectivity. Both laptops must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. If you plan to connect them directly without a router (ad hoc mode), the procedure will be different, but most home scenarios use infrastructure mode via an access point. Make sure the network profile in the system is set to "Private" and not "Public," as the latter profile type hides the device from detection by other network members by default.
To check your current network status, open your system settings. In Windows 10 and 11, you can do this from the Start menu or by pressing a key combination. Win + IGo to the "Network & Internet" section, then select "Wi-Fi" and click on the name of your current connection. Here you'll see the network profile type. If it's set to "Public," change it to "Private." This will make your computer visible to other devices within range.
It's also important to check that both laptops are on the same frequency band if your router supports separate 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks, although modern routers often combine them under a single name (SSID). However, for maximum file transfer speeds, it's preferable to use the same band. 5 GHz, which provides higher throughput.
⚠️ Warning: If you're in a public place (cafe, airport, hotel), changing your profile to "Private" may make your laptop vulnerable to attacks from other users on the same network. In such cases, it's best to use a secure connection or a VPN.
Setting up shared access to files and folders
Once the network profile has been changed, you need to enable discovery and sharing features in the operating system. Without this step, even if you have a connection, you won't be able to see files on the neighboring computer. Open Control Panel, go to Network and Sharing Center, and select Change advanced sharing settings.
In the window that opens, you'll see several profiles: "Private," "Guest or Public," and "All Networks." We're interested in the "Private" section. Here, you need to enable the following options:
- 📡 Enable network discovery (and automatically configure connected devices).
- 📂 Enable file and printer sharing.
- 🔗 Allow Windows to manage HomeGroup connections.
Next, go to the "All Networks" section in the same menu. This is where you'll find a critical setting: "Password-protected sharing." If you want anyone connected to Wi-Fi to access your files, select "Turn off password-protected sharing." If you want to ensure security and require your account login and password, leave this setting enabled.
Be sure to save your changes by clicking the "Save Changes" button at the bottom of the page. The operating system will then apply the new firewall rules and open the necessary ports for local data exchange.
☑️ Check access settings
Folder Forwarding: How to Share Data with a Second Laptop
Now that the network settings are complete, you need to select the specific data you want to share. You can share the entire drive, but this isn't recommended for security reasons. It's better to create a separate folder, for example, C:\Shared_Files, and set up rights specifically for it.
Right-click the folder you want to share and select "Properties." Go to the "Sharing" tab and click "Sharing...." In the window that opens, select the user you want to grant permissions to from the drop-down list (for example, "Everyone" or a specific account name), click "Add," and set the permission level: "Read" (view only) or "Read and Write" (full control).
To fine-tune permissions, go to the "Security" tab in the folder's properties. Here you can see a list of groups and users with access to the object. Click "Edit," then "Add," and enter the username or group (e.g., Everyone) and confirm the action. Make sure the boxes next to the desired actions are checked in the permissions list.
Why might access not work even after setup?
The problem often lies with the Function Discovery Resource Publication service. If it's disabled, the computer won't be visible on the network, even if all the settings are correct. Check services (use services.msc), find this service, and set the startup type to Automatic.
Connecting to shared resources on a second laptop
Once the first laptop is set up, let's move on to the second device. Open File Explorer (click Win + E) and find "Network" in the left navigation panel. If network discovery is working correctly, you'll see the name of the first laptop in the list of available devices.
If the computer doesn't show up automatically, you can force a connection to it using its IP address or network name. Press the combination Win + Rto open the Run window. Enter the address in the format \\ComputerName or \\192.168.1.XX (where XX is the address of the second device) and press Enter.
If the system prompts you for credentials, enter the login and password for the user account on the first laptop (the one with the shared folder). If successfully logged in, a window will open displaying all shared folders. For ease of use, we recommend right-clicking the folder and selecting "Map network drive" so it appears as a separate drive in "My Computer."
| Parameter | Description | Recommended value |
|---|---|---|
| Network profile | Determines the visibility of the device | Private network |
| General access | Permission to read/write files | Included |
| Password protection | Authorization requirement upon login | Depending on the situation (at home - off) |
| SMB protocol | File Transfer Protocol | SMB 1.0 (only if needed for older OS) |
Solving common visibility and connectivity issues
Despite the correct settings, users often encounter a situation where laptops cannot "see" each other. One common cause is a disabled NetBIOS support service or blocked ports by an antivirus program. Ensure that File and Printer Sharing is allowed in the Windows Firewall settings for the private network.
Another common issue is mismatched workgroup names. Although this requirement has become less stringent in modern versions of Windows, to ensure proper operation, both computers must be in the same workgroup (by default, this is WORKGROUP). You can check this in the system properties: right-click on "This PC" → "Properties" → "Advanced system settings" → "Computer name" tab.
⚠️ Please note: Third-party antivirus programs (Kaspersky, ESET, Avast, etc.) often have their own built-in firewalls that can block your local network regardless of Windows settings. If you experience problems, try temporarily disabling network protection in your antivirus or adding your Wi-Fi network to the trusted list.
It's also worth paying attention to the DNS service. If the connection is by name (\\Laptop1) doesn't work, try using the IP address. If that doesn't help, try resetting the network settings with the command netsh winsock reset in the command line, launched as administrator, and then be sure to restart the computer.
Alternative methods of data transfer via Wi-Fi
If setting up a classic local network seems too complicated or requires administrator rights that you don't have, you can use the built-in Nearby Sharing feature in Windows 10 and 11. This technology uses Bluetooth for discovery and Wi-Fi Direct for file transfer, working similarly to AirDrop in the Apple ecosystem.
To activate, go to "Settings" → "System" → "Sharing" (or "Experience Sharing") and enable "Nearby Sharing." Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on both laptops. Now, to transfer a file, simply right-click the document, select "Share," and select the target device from the list. The file will be sent directly, bypassing complex network sharing settings.
Another option is to use specialized synchronization software, such as Resilio Sync or SyncthingThese programs create their own P2P network over Wi-Fi, allowing you to sync entire folders between devices in real time without the need for port forwarding or static IP addresses.
Why is Wi-Fi transmission speed lower than cable?
A wireless connection always incurs overhead due to signal encoding, error checking, and sharing airtime between devices. Furthermore, actual Wi-Fi speeds rarely reach the stated theoretical values due to interference, distance to the router, and the number of connected clients. An Ethernet (LAN) cable provides a stable bandwidth without loss in the radio channel.
Is it possible to connect laptops if one is on Windows 10 and the other is on Windows 7?
Yes, this is possible, but additional steps may be required. In Windows 7, you need to ensure that SMB 1.0 support is enabled (although it's less secure) or, conversely, in Windows 10, you need to enable support for older protocols if automatic discovery doesn't work. The basic principle of setting up folders and access rights remains the same.
Is it safe to keep public access open all the time?
If you're on a home network with a strong Wi-Fi password and restricted access for guests, the risks are minimal. However, if outsiders may connect to your network, it's best to disable public access or use password protection when not needed. Also, keep your operating system updated regularly to patch vulnerabilities.