Creating a local network between two computers isn't just a way to transfer files without flash drives, but also a great way to collaborate or even play games online. In the operating system Windows 10 This process has become significantly easier thanks to the automation of many network services, but there are still nuances that often baffle users. If you want to quickly exchange data, print documents to a remote printer, or simply play online games, you'll need to properly configure discovery and sharing settings.
Before moving on to complex settings, it's worth making sure that both devices are physically ready to connect. Wi-Fi adapters Both computers must be properly functioning, and their drivers must be updated to the latest version, as older drivers may not work correctly with modern security protocols. It's important that both computers are on the same wireless network, meaning they must be connected to the same router; otherwise, a direct connection will not be possible without creating a dedicated access point.
In this article, we'll cover every setup step in detail, from changing the network profile to forwarding folders, avoiding unnecessary theory and focusing on practical steps. You'll learn how to avoid common errors that cause computers to "not see" each other and how to protect your data from prying eyes on the shared network. Follow the instructions step by step, and in just a few minutes, your local network will be ready for active use.
Checking network parameters and network profile
The first step is to check how Windows treats your current connection. By default, the operating system may assign new Wi-Fi connections the "Public Network" profile, making your computer invisible to other devices for security purposes. You need to change this status to "Private Network" to allow discovery.
To do this, open the Start menu and go to Settings → Network & Internet → StatusIn the center of the screen, you'll see the properties of your active connection. If it says "Public," click the "Properties" button under your Wi-Fi network name. In the window that opens, select the "Private" radio button. This will allow your computer to respond to discovery requests from other devices within range of the router.
⚠️ Attention: By switching your profile to "Private," you trust the network. Only do this if you're connected to a home router or secure office Wi-Fi. In cafes or airports, keep the profile set to "Public" to prevent hackers from scanning your open ports.
After changing the network profile, it is recommended to restart the computer so that Windows discovery services can update their status correctly. Also, ensure that both computers are set to the same time zone and the correct time, as time misalignment can block authorization when attempting to access shared resources.
Setting up sharing and discovery
Once the network profile has been changed, you need to enable the corresponding services in the Network and Sharing Center. Windows 10 has a flexible permissions system that can block incoming connections by default, even on a private network. You need to manually enable discovery and file sharing features.
Open Control Panel (you can find it through the search in Start) and go to the section Network and Internet → Network and Sharing CenterIn the left menu, select "Change advanced sharing settings." A list of profiles will open, where you should expand the "Private (current profile)" tab.
Here you need to activate the following options:
- 📡 Enable network discovery (check the box "Turn on automatic configuration of network devices").
- 📂 Enable file and printer sharing.
- 🔐 Allow Windows to manage HomeGroup connections (if this option is present in your OS version).
Next, scroll down to the "All Networks" section. Here, it's important to enable the "Turn on sharing so network users can read and write files in shared folders" option. You can also enable the "Turn off password-protected sharing" option to simplify connections between your computers. This will allow you to connect without entering your account login and password, but will reduce security.
Be sure to save your changes by clicking the "Save Changes" button at the bottom of the page. If you don't, all selected settings will be reset when you close the window. After this, the discovery service will actively search for other devices on the air.
Single name of the working group
One of the most common reasons why computers can't see each other on a local network is a difference in workgroup names. By default, Windows 10 uses the name WORKGROUP, but if it was changed on one of the computers earlier (for example, during a corporate setup), the connection will not occur.
To check and change the workgroup name, right-click "This PC" and select "Properties." In the window that opens, look for the "Advanced system settings" link (usually on the right or bottom). In the dialog box, click the "Computer Name" tab.
At the bottom of the tab, you'll see the current workgroup name. Click the "Change" button and ensure the same value is entered on both computers. It's recommended to use Latin characters and avoid spaces or special characters, although modern versions of Windows have become more tolerant of these nuances.
| Parameter | Recommended value | Acceptable values |
|---|---|---|
| Working group name | WORKGROUP | Any in Latin (up to 15 characters) |
| Computer name | Unique (PC-1, PC-2) | Latin, numbers, hyphen |
| Description (optional) | Laptop in the living room | Free text |
| Domain | (empty) | For corporate networks only |
After changing the workgroup name, the system will require a reboot. Restart both computers for the changes to take effect and for network services to restart with the new configuration settings.
☑️ Check before connection
Setting up shared folders and resources
Once the network settings are complete, you need to determine which files or drives you want to make available to the second computer. You can't simply open the C: drive on the remote machine—you need to explicitly tell the system which folders to share.
Select the folder you want to share, right-click it, and select "Properties." Go to the "Sharing" tab and click "Advanced." Check the "Share this folder" box.
Next, click the "Permissions" button. Here you can fine-tune permissions for the "Everyone" group or specific users:
- ✅ Full access: Allows you to read, write, modify, and delete files in the folder.
- 📖 Change: Allows reading and writing, but restricts some administrative functions.
- 👁️ Reading: Allows you to only view and copy files, but not modify them.
⚠️ Attention: Be careful when granting "Full Control" to folders containing system files or personal documents. If an unwanted guest appears on your network, they could destroy your data. Always check the list of those granted access.
There's also a "Security" tab in the folder's properties. Make sure "Everyone" (or a specific user) is listed in the groups and users list and has the appropriate permissions. Sometimes, permissions are granted in "Access," but denied in "Security," resulting in a "Deny" error.
Search for computers and connect by IP address
If all settings are correct, the computers should be able to see each other. You can open the network places in File Explorer by going to the "Network" section in the left panel. However, sometimes Windows doesn't update the device list immediately, and computers may not be visible even though they can connect.
In this case, the most reliable connection method is using an IP address. First, find out the IP address of the computer you want to connect to. To do this, open a command prompt on the target PC (type cmd in the search) and enter the command:
ipconfigFind the line "IPv4 Address". It will look something like this: 192.168.1.55 or 192.168.0.102Now on the first computer, open File Explorer, press the key combination Win + R and enter the address in the format: \\192.168.1.55 (use two backslashes). Press Enter.
If the settings are correct, a window will open with a list of all shared folders on the remote computer. You can map this address as a network drive for permanent access through My Computer. To do this, in File Explorer, click This PC → Computer (in the top menu) → Map Network Drive.
What should I do if I get the error "Unable to access"?
Most often, the problem lies with your antivirus or firewall. Try temporarily disabling your third-party antivirus. Also, check if the "Function Discovery Resource Publishing" service is enabled in services.msc. Make sure the startup type is set to "Automatic."
Troubleshooting common problems and errors
Even if you follow the instructions exactly, situations may arise where the network becomes unstable. Often, the problem lies in Windows services that have stopped for some reason. For example, the service SSDP Discovery or UPnP Device Host must be running for correct device detection.
To check, click Win + R, enter services.msc and find in the list:
- 🔍 SSDP Discovery Service
- 🖥️ UPnP Discovery Node
- 📡 Publishing Function Discovery Resources
Make sure these services are running and their startup type is set to "Automatic." If a service is stopped, double-click it and click "Start." This often resolves the issue of computers not being able to see each other after a system update.
It's also worth checking your Windows Firewall settings. Go to Control Panel → Windows Defender Firewall → Allow an app. Make sure the boxes for Network Discovery and File and Printer Sharing are checked in the Private column.
Why can't computers see each other even though they have the same Wi-Fi?
Most likely, one of the computers is set to the "Public" network profile, which hides the computer from detection. Also, check if "Network discovery" is enabled in the advanced sharing settings. A third possible cause is different workgroup names.
How to transfer a large file (more than 4 GB)?
When transferring files over a network, there's no protocol limitation on file size, unlike with some email services. The only limitation may be the file system of the drive you're copying to (FAT32 doesn't support files larger than 4GB). Use the NTFS file system on both computers.
Is it possible to play online via Wi-Fi?
Yes, you can. However, connection stability will depend on your Wi-Fi signal. For gaming, it's best to use a cable (LAN) or ensure both computers are within close proximity to the router to minimize latency (ping).
Is internet required for a local network to function?
No, internet access is not required. A local network works between devices directly through a router or even via a direct Wi-Fi connection (computer-to-computer), even if the ISP's cable is disconnected.