Creating a local area network between two computers is a basic task that allows you to share files, use a shared printer, or even play online games without the need for unnecessary cables. Modern operating systems, such as Windows 10 And Windows 11, have significantly simplified this process, making it accessible even to inexperienced users. Unlike older versions, which required creating complex security groups, today it's enough to correctly configure the network profile and sharing settings.
The main condition for a successful connection is the presence of a working Wi-Fi router, to which both devices are connected. It's important to understand that the computers can be connected wirelessly, or one via a cable and the other over the air—for a local network, this doesn't matter, as long as they are on the same network segment. If you plan to transfer large amounts of data, signal stability becomes critical.
In this guide, we'll cover all the setup details, from changing the network profile to granting access to specific folders. You'll learn how to avoid common mistakes most users encounter when first attempting setup. The key is to assign both computers static IP addresses or understand how DHCP works to avoid addressing conflicts in the future.
Preparing equipment and checking connections
Before proceeding with software settings, you need to ensure that data exchange is physically possible. Both computers must be connected to the same access point. This means that if you have multiple routers at home, operating in repeater mode or as separate networks, both computers must "see" the same gateway.
Check the connection status on each device. The Wi-Fi icon in the system tray should indicate an active connection to the internet or local network. If one of the computers is limited to "Connected, no internet access," this isn't always a problem with the local network, but it could indicate issues with the router drivers or settings.
⚠️ Attention: Make sure third-party VPN services are disabled on both computers during setup. Virtual adapters can create conflicting routes and block the visibility of devices on the local network.
You can use built-in Windows tools for diagnostics. Open a command prompt and enter the command ipconfigFind the "Default Gateway" line. If the gateway addresses on both computers are the same (for example, 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1), then they are on the same network.
Setting up a network profile in Windows
By default, the Windows operating system considers new networks to be "Public." This mode enables an enhanced level of security that hides your computer from detection by other devices. To allow two computers to "see" each other, you must change the network profile to "Private."
IN Windows 10 And Windows 11 This can be done through the Settings app. Go to the Start menu, select Settings (the gear icon), and open Network & Internet. In the list of active connections, click your Wi-Fi connection.
In the window that opens, find the network profile type switch. Change the value from "Public" to "Private." This will allow the system to discover the device and access shared resources. This must be done on both computers.
☑️ Check network settings
If you can't change your profile, you may not have administrator rights or your settings may be overridden by group policies (more common in corporate networks). On a home network, profile changes are usually instantaneous and don't require a reboot.
Turn on network discovery and sharing
After changing your network profile, you need to enable discovery features. Even on a private network, these services can be disabled manually or by an antivirus program. Open the Control Panel and go to Network and Sharing Center.
In the left menu, select "Change advanced sharing settings." Here you'll see several profiles: "Private," "Guest or public," and "All networks." Expand the "Private (current profile)" tab.
Set the switches to the following positions:
- 📡 Enable network discovery
- 📁 Enable file and printer sharing
- 🔒 Allow Windows to manage HomeGroup connections
Next, expand the "All Networks" tab. Here, it's important to configure access settings for shared folders. Select "Turn on sharing so network users can read and write files in shared folders." It's also recommended to disable "Password-protected sharing" if you completely trust all devices on your network and want to simplify access without logins.
⚠️ Attention: Disabling password protection allows access to your shared folders to anyone who connects to your Wi-Fi. If outsiders can connect to your network, leave password protection enabled and use the same accounts on both PCs.
Don't forget to click the "Save Changes" button at the bottom of the page. The system will then apply the new firewall rules.
Creating a shared folder for data exchange
Now that the network infrastructure is set up, you need to create a location where the files will be stored. You can share any existing folder or create a new one, for example, on drive D and name it "Share."
Right-click the folder and select "Properties." Go to the "Sharing" tab and click "Advanced." Check the "Share this folder" box.
In the same window, click the "Permissions" button. By default, the "Everyone" group is set to read-only permissions. If you want the second computer to be able to download or delete files, as well as retrieve them, select the "Everyone" group and check "Full Control" in the "Allow" column.
| Access type | Reading | Recording | Removal | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Read only | Yes | No | No | For archives and photos |
| Change | Yes | Yes | No | For working documents |
| Full access | Yes | Yes | Yes | For temporary exchange |
| Special rights | Selectively | Selectively | Selectively | For experienced users |
Once the settings are applied, the folder will be accessible over the network. The path to it will look like this: \\ComputerName\FolderName.
How to find out the computer name?
Open "Settings" → "System" → "About." Under "Device settings," you'll see "Device name." This is the name you'll need to use to connect.
Search for connected devices and access resources
On the second computer, open File Explorer (keys Win + E). In the left navigation panel, find "Network." If you did everything correctly, the first computer should appear there after a few seconds.
If your computer doesn't show up automatically, you can access it directly using its IP address. Type it into the address bar of File Explorer. \\192.168.1.X (where X is the address of the first PC) and press Enter. This is the most reliable connection method.
The first time you connect, the system may ask for credentials. Enter the login and password for the user account on the first computer. If you disabled password protection, access will be granted immediately.
- 💾 Open the network folder
- 📥 Copy the necessary files
- 🚀 Data transfer will take place via Wi-Fi channel
Copy speed will depend on the Wi-Fi router standard. At 2.4 GHz, speeds rarely exceed 3-4 MB/s, while modern 5 GHz routers can deliver transfer speeds of 20-40 MB/s and higher.
Diagnosing problems and troubleshooting errors
The most common problem is that computers can't see each other. In 90% of cases, this is due to the network profile being set to "Public" or the "Computer" (Workstation) service not being running.
Check services. Click Win + R, enter services.msc and find the "Function Discovery Resource Publication" service. Set the startup type to "Automatic" and start the service.
⚠️ Attention: Antivirus programs (Kaspersky, ESET, Avast) often have their own built-in firewalls that block local network access even when allowed in Windows. Check the "Firewall" settings in your antivirus.
Also, make sure that the SMB 1.0 protocol is enabled on both computers (although this is less secure, it is sometimes required for older devices). This can be done in "Turn Windows features on or off."
Setting up a gaming LAN connection
A local network via Wi-Fi is often used for multiplayer gaming. Older games use the IPX/SPX protocol, but modern ones operate over TCP/IP. The main requirement is that the game must support "Local Network" or "LAN" mode.
When creating a game, one computer acts as the host (creates the server), and the other connects to it. If the game doesn't see the server, try adding an exception to Windows Firewall for the game's executable file (.exe).
In your router settings, you can reserve IP addresses for the MAC addresses of your network cards. This ensures that your computers' addresses won't change after a router reboot, which is convenient for long-term gaming sessions.
Alternative methods of data transfer
If setting up a shared folder seems too complicated, there are simpler methods. For example, the built-in Nearby Sharing feature in Windows 10/11 works using Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Direct.
To activate, go to "Settings" → "System" → "File Sharing" and enable the feature on both PCs. A "Share" button will then appear in the file's context menu (right-click).
This method does not require creating shared folders and setting up access rights, but it is less convenient for transferring large numbers of small files or organizing permanent storage.
Why is my computer not visible on the network even though I have internet access?
The problem is most likely with the network profile (it's set to "Public") or the discovery service. Check if the network icon is set to "Private Network." Also, try temporarily disabling your antivirus.
What is the maximum transfer speed for Wi-Fi?
In real-world conditions, the 802.11n standard (2.4 GHz) will deliver speeds of approximately 3-4 MB/s. The 802.11ac/ax standard (5 GHz) can achieve speeds of 20-50 MB/s, which is comparable to fast USB 2.0.
Is internet required for a local network to function?
No, internet access is not required. The local network operates directly between devices via the router. Even if the ISP cable is disconnected, files will still be transferred.
How to transfer a 100 GB file?
Wi-Fi may be unstable for such volumes. It's better to use an external hard drive or an Ethernet cable (twisted pair), connecting the computers directly or through a switch.