Creating a local network between computers is a basic skill required by every user of the modern digital space. Sharing large files, printers, or setting up a game server requires a stable connection, which is often more convenient without unnecessary wires. Wireless technology Wi-Fi allows you to quickly connect devices into a single infrastructure, ensuring high data transfer speeds and mobility.
The setup process may seem complicated at first glance, but it actually comes down to a few sequential steps within the operating system. Whether you're using a laptop or a desktop PC with a USB adapter, the organization principles LAN remain similar. The main thing is to properly configure network discovery settings and security protocols to avoid connection conflicts.
In this article, we'll cover every step of connecting two computers in detail, focusing on the nuances of different Windows versions. You'll learn how to avoid common mistakes that often occur when changing network profiles. A ready-made network will open up new possibilities for managing your home or office digital space.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
Before beginning software configuration, you must ensure that the hardware is physically ready for operation. Both computers must be equipped with working wireless modules, whether integrated into the motherboard or external ones. USB adaptersIt is critical that the devices are in a strong signal area, as low battery or interference can interrupt the initial pairing process.
Both computers must be connected to the same access point or operate in direct mode. If you're using a router, make sure it's assigning IP addresses and is functioning properly. If you're creating a computer-to-computer network without a router, one of the machines will need to handle IP address assignment.
⚠️ Note: When using public Wi-Fi networks (such as cafes and airports), establishing a local connection between devices is often blocked by the provider's security settings. In these situations, connecting is only possible through a virtual private network (VPN) or a mobile hotspot.
Check your network adapter drivers in Device Manager. Failure to install up-to-date software can result in unstable network operation or even a complete loss of network connectivity. Ensure that both devices are configured with the same encryption standard, such as WPA2 or WPA3, as incompatibility of security protocols will make connection impossible.
Network profile setup and discovery
By default, the Windows operating system limits your computer's visibility on the network when the connection profile is set to "Public." To enable local data exchange, you need to switch this status to "Private." This action allows other devices to discover your PC and opens ports for standard services.
Access your network settings via the Control Panel or Start menu. Go to the network status section and click Properties for your current connection. In the window that opens, select "Private," which signals the system to trust surrounding devices.
- 📡 Open "Settings" and go to "Network & Internet".
- 🔒 Select "Status" and click on the properties of the active Wi-Fi connection.
- 🏠 In the "Network Profile" section, set the switch to the "Private" position.
- 💻 Repeat the procedure on the second computer for symmetrical settings.
After changing your profile, you need to enable network discovery. Go to Control Panel, select Network and Sharing Center, and go to Change advanced sharing settings. Here, enable PC discovery and automatic installation of network devices.
☑️ Checking detection settings
It's important to note that enabling these features makes your computer visible not only to home appliances but also to any other devices within Wi-Fi range. Therefore, it's highly recommended to use strong passwords on your access point and to keep up with security updates.
Creating a network via a router (Infrastructure Mode)
The most stable and common connection method is using a wireless router. In this mode, both computers connect to a central device, which takes care of traffic management and distribution. IP addressesThis topology is called infrastructure and ensures maximum compatibility with all modern operating systems.
Make sure both computers are connected to the same SSID (network name). If you have a dual-band router, it's best to use the same frequency (e.g., 5 GHz) for both devices to avoid potential delays when transferring data between different subnets.
Make sure both devices are on the same subnet. Routers typically issue addresses in the range 192.168.0.x or 192.168.1.xThe first three numbers in the address must match, but the last number must be different. If addresses are issued automatically through DHCP, there shouldn't be any problems.
| Parameter | Computer 1 | Computer 2 | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| IP address | 192.168.1.10 | 192.168.1.15 | In the same subnet |
| Subnet mask | 255.255.255.0 | 255.255.255.0 | Matches |
| Main gateway | 192.168.1.1 | 192.168.1.1 | Same |
| DNS | 192.168.1.1 | 192.168.1.1 | Automatically |
To check the connection, use the command line utility. Open the terminal (cmd) and enter the command ping with the IP address of the second computer. A successful response confirms that the physical connection and underlying protocols are working correctly.
ping 192.168.1.15If packets are being lost or response times are exceeding the norm, try rebooting the router. Sometimes an ARP table overflow or a temporary glitch in the router firmware can prevent normal data exchange between clients.
Ad-Hoc (direct communication)
In situations where the router is unavailable or faulty, a direct connection between two computers can be established. This mode, known as Ad-Hoc, allows devices to communicate directly, bypassing a central access point. However, in modern versions of Windows (starting with version 10), creating a classic ad-hoc network through the graphical interface has been discontinued, requiring the use of the command line.
One of the computers will act as a host, creating a virtual access point. To do this, you'll need to enter a special command in the command prompt running as administrator. This will create a software interface that other devices will see as a regular Wi-Fi network.
Enter the following command to create the network:
netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode=allow ssid=MyLocalNet key=Password123Here MyLocalNet — the name of the network being created, and Password123 — password for connection. After the command has successfully completed, you must start the network with the command netsh wlan start hostednetworkOn the second computer, find the created network in the list of available connections and enter the password.
⚠️ Note: A direct Ad-Hoc connection often has lower data transfer rates than an infrastructure connection through a router. Additionally, some older Wi-Fi adapter drivers may not support host mode, which will result in an error when running the command.
After launching the virtual network, you may need to manually configure Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) if you plan to access the global network through the host machine. To do this, you need to allow other users to use this connection in the properties of the active internet connection on the host machine.
What to do if the netsh command doesn't work?
If the system reports an error when creating a hosted network, check if the driver supports virtual host mode. Enter the command netsh wlan show drivers and look for the line "Hosted network support." If it says "No," update your Wi-Fi adapter drivers or use third-party software to create an access point.
Setting up shared access to files and folders
Once the connection is successfully established, you need to configure resource access permissions. By default, Windows blocks access to the C: drive and other system partitions for security reasons. You will need to manually select the folders or drives that will be accessible to the second computer.
Select the desired folder, right-click it, and select "Properties." Go to the "Sharing" tab and click "Advanced." Check the "Share this folder" box and set the necessary permissions for users.
- 📂 Click "Advanced" in the folder properties window.
- 👥 Add the "Everyone" group or a specific user to the list.
- ✅ Check the "Read" and "Modify" boxes according to your needs.
- 🔐 Confirm your actions by clicking the "OK" button in all open windows.
An important aspect is the user account. If the computers use different logins and passwords, the system may prompt for authorization when attempting to access the computer. To simplify the process, you can create identical accounts with the same passwords on both machines or disable the password requirement in the advanced sharing settings.
It's also worth checking your firewall. Sometimes it can block the SMB protocol, which is necessary for file sharing. Make sure "File and Printer Sharing" is enabled for private networks in your firewall rules.
Diagnosis and solution of typical problems
Even with proper configuration, situations may arise where computers cannot see each other. Often, the problem lies in Windows services that are disabled by default. In particular, the service SSDP Discovery And UPnP Device Host must be running for devices to display correctly on the network.
Open the Services Manager (command services.msc) and find the listed services. Set the startup type to "Automatic" and start them if they are stopped. This often solves the problem of computers disappearing from the list of network devices.
Another common cause is a workgroup mismatch. While this requirement is less critical in modern versions of Windows, being in the same workgroup (by default) WORKGROUP) makes searching easier. You can check and change the workgroup name in the "System" section via "My Computer."
⚠️ Please note: Third-party antivirus software (Kaspersky, ESET, Avast) often has its own built-in firewall, which can block the local network, ignoring Windows settings. If you experience problems, try temporarily disabling network protection in your antivirus or adding the local network to the trusted list.
If all else fails, try resetting your network settings. Windows 10 and 11 have a "Network Reset" feature that deletes all saved Wi-Fi profiles and reinstalls your network adapters. This is a drastic but effective method for eliminating software conflicts.
Why can't computers see each other even though they have the same Wi-Fi?
Most often, the problem lies in the "Public" network profile. Also, check that your antivirus isn't blocking the connection, and ensure the Discovery Resource Publishing service is running on both computers.
What is the maximum speed on a local network via Wi-Fi?
Speed depends on the Wi-Fi standard (n, ac, ax) and the distance from the router. Under ideal conditions, 5 GHz can reach 300-800 Mbps, which is significantly slower than a gigabit cable, but sufficient for streaming video and gaming.
Do you need a static IP for a local network?
Dynamic DHCP addresses are sufficient for basic file sharing. A static IP is only needed if you're setting up a server, printer, or specific network equipment that requires a permanent address.