Organization local network Wireless networking between computers is a basic task for users who need to quickly transfer large amounts of data or play online games without internet access. Unlike a wired connection, wireless connectivity allows freedom of movement and eliminates the need to run wires throughout the entire apartment. Modern technologies make it possible to set this up fairly quickly, provided you understand the basic principles of network protocols.
The basis for combining two or more machines is the presence of router or creating a direct computer-to-computer connection. In the first case, devices connect through a central access point; in the second, one device acts as a server. The choice of a specific method depends on your equipment and the goals you're pursuing in creating such an infrastructure.
In this article, we will examine both options for implementing the task, paying special attention to the operating system settings. Windows, as it's the most common in the home segment. You'll learn how to properly set up sharing, avoid common security mistakes, and ensure stable data transfer speeds. Even a novice user will be up and running in no more than 15-20 minutes.
Selecting a topology: via a router or directly
Before you begin setting up, it's important to decide on a connection scheme. The most common and reliable option is to use Wi-Fi routerIn this case, both computers are connected to the same wireless network, and the router automatically assigns IP addresses to them, acting as an intermediary. This method is ideal if you need to connect more than two devices or provide them with internet access.
The second option, known as Ad-hoc Computer-to-computer (or "computer-to-computer") access point (APC) is created using one PC. This is useful when the router is missing, broken, or located far away. However, this method has limitations in speed and stability, and requires more complex manual configuration of network parameters.
It's worth noting that both devices must be equipped with wireless adapters to work via Wi-Fi. Laptops come with built-in adapters, while desktop PCs may require an external one. USB adapter or internal board. Make sure the drivers are installed correctly and the devices can see available networks.
⚠️ Attention: When connecting directly without a router, the network range may be significantly smaller and the data transfer rate may be lower due to the specific operation of wireless cards in access point emulation mode.
Setting up a network via a Wi-Fi router
If you have a working router, the task comes down to connecting both computers to the same wireless network. Make sure Wi-Fi is enabled on both devices and the same router is selected. SSID (network name). After entering the password, the system will automatically detect the network type as "Private" or "Home," which will automatically open the necessary ports for local communication.
The key is to check your network profile. In Windows 10 and 11, the first time you connect, the system asks if you want to make this computer discoverable. You must select "Yes" or switch the network profile to "Private." In "Public" mode, the system blocks incoming connections for security purposes.
☑️ Checking the connection to the router
To check the connection, you can use the built-in command line utility. Open a terminal on one of the computers, enter cmd and run the command ipconfigto find out the IP address of the second computer. Then try pinging it by entering ping 192.168.1.X (where X is the address of the second PC). A successful packet exchange confirms the physical and logical connection between the machines.
Ad-hoc communication
Creating a computer-to-computer network requires manual configuration on one of the computers that will act as the host. In modern versions of Windows, the functionality for creating a classic ad-hoc network is hidden, but it can be activated via the command line or the "Mobile Hotspot" feature. The latter option is a more modern and convenient alternative.
To launch a mobile hotspot, go to Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile HotspotEnable the feature and set the network name and password. On the second computer, find the created network in the list of available connections and connect to it as you would to a regular Wi-Fi hotspot.
| Parameter | Router Mode | Direct connection (Hot spot) | Cable (Ethernet) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transfer speed | High (depending on the router) | Medium/Low | Maximum |
| Stability | High | Average | Very high |
| Difficulty of setup | Low | Average | Low |
| Equipment requirements | Router | Wi-Fi adapters only | UTP cable |
When using a direct connection For purely local file sharing, access to the global network is not required.
Why does the speed drop in Ad-hoc mode?
In direct mode, the wireless adapter cannot simultaneously effectively receive and transmit data at full 802.11ac/ax speeds, as it emulates a base station in software rather than hardware. This results in increased latency (ping) and reduced channel throughput.
Setting up sharing in Windows
After a successful physical connection, you need to configure the software. Even if the computers "see" each other, folder access is blocked by default. To get started, open Control Panel and go to Network and Sharing Center. Click the link "Change advanced sharing settings."
In the window that opens, find the "Private" profile (or "Current profile"). Here, you need to enable the following options: "Turn on network discovery" and "Turn on file and printer sharing." It's also recommended to check "Let Windows manage HomeGroup connections," if this option is available in your OS version.
Don't forget to save your changes. Afterward, the system may require you to restart network services or the computer itself. Make sure device discovery is also enabled in the "All Networks" section. This is a critical step, as without it, the second PC simply won't show up in the network neighborhood.
⚠️ Attention: Disabling password protection reduces security. Use this method only if you are sure that unauthorized persons do not have access to your Wi-Fi network.
Expanding folders and troubleshooting errors
Now you need to select the specific data you want to share. Select the folder you want to share, right-click it, and select "Properties." Go to the "Sharing" tab and click "Advanced Sharing." Check the "Share this folder" box.
In the permissions list, ensure that the "Everyone" group (or a specific user) has read and write permissions. If you only plan to view files, leave the permissions as read-only. Full access to documents on both PCs is required for full functionality.
A common issue is the error "Windows cannot access...." This is most often caused by a firewall block. Go to Windows Firewall settings and ensure that the "File and Printer Sharing (SMB-In)" application is allowed for the private network.
Security and speed optimization
An open local network is a potential vulnerability. Even if you're connected via password-protected Wi-Fi, file access within the network can be uncontrolled. It's recommended to create separate accounts with passwords for network access or use complex passwords for existing accounts.
To optimize the transfer speed of large files, try using the 5 GHz band if your adapters and router support dual-band mode. This will significantly reduce interference from neighboring networks and microwave ovens, increasing the actual throughput of the channel.
It's also worth updating your wireless adapter drivers to the latest version from the manufacturer's website. Older drivers may not work correctly with new WPA3 encryption protocols or may not support power-saving modes, which can cause intermittent connection drops.
How to hide a folder from accidental deletion?
When sharing a folder, you can leave the "Everyone" group's access permissions as "Read Only." Allow only your account to write and modify. This will allow other network users to copy files, but not delete or modify the originals.
Why is the second computer not visible in the network neighborhood?
Most often, the problem lies with the network profile. If Windows considers the network "Public," it hides your computer from other devices. Go to the network settings and change the profile to "Private." Also, check the "Function Discovery Resource Publishing" service—it should be running.
Is it possible to play online via Wi-Fi?
Yes, most modern games support LAN mode over Wi-Fi. However, for shooters and fast-paced games, low latency (ping) is essential. If your router is old or the channel is busy, lag may occur. For competitive gaming, it's better to use a cable or 5 GHz Wi-Fi.
Is internet required for a local network to function?
No, internet access is not required. The local network operates autonomously. If you use a router without a connection to a provider, computers will still be able to see each other and exchange files as long as they are connected to the router.
How to find out the IP address of a second computer?
On the second computer, open the command prompt (cmd) and enter the command ipconfigFind the "IPv4 Address" line. It usually looks like 192.168.0.X or 192.168.1.X. This is the address you need to enter in the address bar of File Explorer on the first PC.
Does antivirus affect the connection?
Third-party antivirus programs (Kaspersky, ESET, Avast) often have a built-in firewall that can block local connections even if Windows Firewall is configured correctly. Temporarily disable network protection in your antivirus to test it or add your local network as an exception.