How to Connect Two Computers via Wi-Fi: Creating a Local Area Network

Creating a wireless local network between two computers is a task that only seems complicated at first glance. Modern operating systems, such as Windows 10 and Windows 11, offer built-in tools that allow you to connect devices into a single ecosystem in minutes. Local area network Provides access to shared resources, printers, and files, making it especially useful for home offices or gaming environments.

There are two main ways to establish a connection: through an existing Wi-Fi router or by creating a direct computer-to-computer connection without a router. The choice of method depends on your infrastructure and goals. In the first case, both devices must be connected to the same wireless network; in the second, one computer creates an access point or acts as a server.

It is important to understand that for stable operation of all components, it is necessary that the network adapters on both PCs function correctly. Drivers must be updated and Windows services activated. In this article, we'll cover both connection options, sharing settings, and potential issues you might encounter along the way.

Preparing equipment and checking basic settings

Before you begin performing complex manipulations on the control panel, you must ensure that the equipment is physically ready. Wi-Fi adapters Both computers must be working and enabled. If you're using a desktop PC without an integrated module, make sure the USB dongle or PCI card is properly installed and detected by the system.

A critical point is the network type assigned by Windows when you first connect. The system may classify your network as "Public," which automatically blocks your device from being visible to others. You need to change the network profile to "Private" to allow discovery.

⚠️ Warning: If you are in a public place (cafe, airport), never change the network profile to "Private", as this will make your computer visible to other devices on the same network.

To check the network status, go to Settings → Network & Internet → StatusThe connection type will be indicated there. It's also worth making sure that both devices have the same workgroup name, although this requirement has become less stringent in modern versions of Windows. For compatibility, it's best to leave the default value. WORKGROUP.

• 📶 Make sure both computers are connected to the same Wi-Fi network (SSID).
• 💻 Check that the IP addresses of the devices are in the same subnet (e.g. 192.168.1.X).
• 🔌 Reboot your router if you experience problems distributing addresses.
• 🛡️ Temporarily disable third-party antivirus programs that may block local traffic.

After completing these simple steps, the foundation for creating a network is laid. Now you can move on to configuring the discovery parameters programmatically.

Setting up sharing in Windows

The central configuration element is the Network and Sharing Center. This is where you'll find the switches that determine whether your computer is visible to other devices, and whether they can see it. Open this section through the Control Panel or the context menu of the network icon in the system tray.

In the "Change advanced sharing settings" section, you'll need to enable a few key features. First, enable network discoveryThis allows the computer to send and receive network presence signals. Without this step, devices will be "blind" to each other, even if a physical connection is established.

Next, you need to enable file and printer sharing. This permission allows other network users to access resources you mark as shared. It's also recommended to enable automatic installation of connected network devices, which will simplify working with peripherals.

Be sure to save your changes by clicking the appropriate button at the bottom of the page. Windows may prompt you to confirm your administrator rights. After applying the settings, there may be a short pause before the services update their status.

Creating a network via a router (standard method)

The most stable and simple way to connect two computers is to use a Wi-Fi router as a central switching hub. In this scenario, both computers connect to a wireless access point, and the router automatically routes packets between them.

First, make sure both devices have IP addresses from the same subnet. Routers typically use the 192.168.0.x or 192.168.1.x range. To check your address, use the command line. Click Win + R, enter cmd and press Enter.

ipconfig

Find the "IPv4 Address" line. Write down the address for the first computer. Repeat the process on the second computer. If the first three numbers in the addresses match (for example, 192.168.1.15 and 192.168.1.20), then the devices are on the same network and ready to exchange data.

If automatic address acquisition (DHCP) does not work, you may have to manually enter static IP addresses in the protocol properties. TCP/IPv4However, in home networks with a working router, this is rarely necessary.

Organizing a direct connection (Ad-Hoc or Hotspot)

Situations where the router is unavailable require creating a direct connection. In Windows 10 and 11, this feature is implemented through the "Mobile Hotspot" mechanism. One computer acts as an access point, while the other connects to it as a regular Wi-Fi router.

On the computer that will be distributing the Internet (host), go to Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile HotspotSelect the adapter your PC uses to connect to the internet (if you need to share it), or simply create a network. Enter a network name and password.

After enabling the hotspot on the second computer, find the created network in the list of available Wi-Fi connections and enter the password. Both devices are now connected to the same local network, even without an external router. Throughput in this mode may be lower than with dedicated equipment.

⚠️ Please note: When using hotspot mode, the host laptop's battery will drain significantly faster due to the radio module constantly operating in transmit mode.

This method is ideal for temporarily transferring large files or playing together over a local network while traveling or in areas without infrastructure.

Opening access to folders and files

Once the network connection is established, you need to grant access to specific data. The contents of your C: drive won't just become available to your network neighbor. You need to select the folder you want to share.

Right-click the folder, select "Properties," and go to the "Sharing" tab. Click "Advanced" and check "Share this folder." In the permissions for the "Everyone" group, we recommend setting "Read" or "Modify" permissions if you need to write to files.

There's also a simplified method via the "Sharing" tab in the same properties window. Select users from the list (e.g., "Everyone" or a specific user) and click "Add" to set the permission level.

Problem with password access

If the system constantly asks for a password you don't know, try enabling the "Turn off password-protected sharing" option in the advanced sharing settings. This will reduce security but make access easier on a trusted home network.

Once configured, the folder will be accessible to other network members. To check, go to the second computer, open File Explorer, and select "Network." The name of the first computer and the shared folder should appear there.

Troubleshooting common connection errors

Even with proper configuration, problems can still occur. Computers may not be able to see each other, or access may be blocked by a firewall. One common cause is a disabled Discovery Resource Publishing service.

To check, click Win + R, enter services.msc. Look in the list for services related to network discovery (for example, Function Discovery Resource Publication). Make sure they are running and the startup type is set to "Automatic".

It's also worth checking your Windows firewall settings. Sometimes third-party antivirus packages completely block local connections, considering them suspicious. Try temporarily disabling the firewall for diagnostic purposes.

Questions and Answers (FAQ)

Is it possible to connect computers via Wi-Fi if one of them is running Windows 7 and the other is running Windows 10?

Yes, this is possible, but it may require additional configuration. In Windows 10, you need to enable SMBv1 protocol support (although this is not recommended for security reasons) or properly configure shared folders with access rights for the guest account. Often, entering the IP address of the Windows 7 computer in the address bar of File Explorer resolves the issue.

What is the maximum Wi-Fi data transfer speed in a local network?

Speed ​​depends on the Wi-Fi standard (n, ac, ax) and signal conditions. Under ideal conditions, 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) can achieve real-world speeds of 300-500 Mbps. 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) can deliver even higher speeds, but they will always be slower than a wired Gigabit Ethernet connection.

Is it safe to keep files publicly accessible?

On a home network with a strong Wi-Fi password, the risks are minimal. However, on public networks, this can be dangerous. Always use strong passwords for Windows accounts and try not to share system folders. For temporary file transfers, it's best to use cloud services or disable shared access immediately after use.

Why did I lose access to a network folder after a Windows update?

Major Windows updates often reset network settings to "Public" for security reasons. Updates can also change firewall policies. It's recommended to review your network profile and sharing settings after each major update.