Creating a local network between computers is one of the most useful features of a home Wi-Fi router. You often need to transfer large files, set up printer sharing, or simply play an online game without using external drives or internet connections. Local Area Network (LAN) Allows devices to exchange data at high speeds, limited only by the capabilities of your wireless equipment.
Unlike a direct computer-to-computer (Ad-hoc) connection, using a router as the central hub significantly simplifies the process and improves connection stability. You don't need to run cables or manually configure complex static IP addresses if DHCP server The router is working correctly. All modern operating systems, such as Windows 10 and Windows 11, have built-in tools for organizing such interaction.
In this article, we'll walk you through a step-by-step process that will transform your disparate laptops into a single computing system. You'll learn how to change your network profile, set up file sharing, and troubleshoot common issues that prevent computers from seeing each other in your network.
Checking the basic connection conditions
Before attempting complex registry or group policy settings, you must ensure that the physical layer and underlying network logic are functioning properly. The most important requirement is that both laptops must be connected to the same Wi-Fi networkIf one laptop is on 2.4 GHz and the other on 5 GHz, this isn't a problem, as long as they receive addresses from the same router.
Check that the network adapter is active on both devices and the connection icon is lit. Make sure you're in a strong signal area, as a weak signal can cause occasional packet drops, which is critical for establishing the initial handshake between devices.
⚠️ Attention: If your router supports the "Guest Network" feature, make sure both laptops are not connected to it. Guest networks often have AP Isolation, which physically prevents devices from seeing each other within the same Wi-Fi access point.
It's also worth checking whether Airplane Mode is enabled on one of the laptops or whether the Wi-Fi module is disabled by software. Sometimes users forget that one laptop might be connected to a wired network while the other is using Wi-Fi. This is acceptable with a standard home router configuration, but it requires checking the IP ranges.
Setting up a network profile: private or public
A key point that's often overlooked is the network profile type. Windows treats new Wi-Fi connections as "Public" by default, automatically hiding your computer from other devices for security reasons. To set up a local network, you need to switch the profile to Private.
To do this in Windows 10 or 11, go to Network Settings. Click the Wi-Fi icon in the system tray and select Properties for your current connection. In the menu that opens, find the Network Type switch and set it to "Private." This will allow incoming connections and make your computer discoverable.
Repeat this procedure on the second laptop. Without changing this setting on both devices, any further sharing settings may not work, as Windows Firewall will block incoming discovery requests.
Enabling file and folder sharing
Once the network profile has been changed, you need to grant the system permission to exchange data. To do this, use the Network and Sharing Center. Go to the Control Panel, select "Network and Internet," then "Network and Sharing Center." In the left menu, click the link Change advanced sharing options.
A list of profiles will open. Make sure you're in the "Private" section (your current profile). Here, you'll need to enable the following features:
- 📡 Enable network discovery: Allows your PC to see and be visible to other computers.
- 📂 Enable file and printer sharing: Allows access to shared resources.
- 🔐 Using encryption: It is recommended to leave it enabled for the security of transmitted data.
At the bottom of the window ("All Networks"), you can set up password-protected sharing. If you're on a trusted home network, you can disable password protection to avoid entering each user's login and password each time you connect. However, if you have strangers on the network, it's best to leave password protection enabled and use the same login credentials on both computers.
☑️ Access setup checklist
Creating a shared folder for data exchange
Now that the network settings are complete, you need to create a location where the files will be stored for sharing. Select any folder on your drive or create a new one, for example, ExchangeRight-click on it and select "Properties." You're looking for the "Access" tab.
Click the button General access...In the window that opens, select the "Everyone" user from the drop-down list and click "Add." "Everyone" will then appear in the user list, and you can set their permission level: "Read" (view only) or "Read and Write" (full control).
For home use, it's best to grant "Read and Write" permissions so that both laptops can upload files to this folder. Once configured, click "Share" and then "Done." This folder is now accessible over the network.
⚠️ Attention: If you're using Windows 10/11 Home, you may not have the Security tab or advanced access settings. In this case, the system may force you to enter a password. The solution is to create identical user accounts (login and password) on both laptops.
To access the shared folder from another laptop, open File Explorer and go to the Network section. You should see the name of the first computer there. Double-clicking it will grant access to the shared resources.
What to do if the folder won't open?
If you get an "Access Denied" error when trying to open a folder, try entering the host computer's IP address in the File Explorer address bar in the format \\192.168.1.XX. This often bypasses DNS naming errors.
Comparison of connection methods and their features
There are several ways to establish communication between laptops, and the choice depends on your goals. Below is a table comparing the main Wi-Fi communication methods.
| Method | Transfer speed | Difficulty of setup | Security |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shared folder (SMB) | High (depending on Wi-Fi) | Average | Average (depending on passwords) |
| Nearby Sharing | Average | Low | High (requires confirmation) |
| Network play (LAN) | Critical latency (Ping) | High | Low (local) |
| Remote Desktop | Low (for video) | Average | High (RDP encryption) |
For ongoing work with documents and media files, the shared folder (SMB) method is best. It provides seamless integration into the system, allowing you to work with files on a remote drive as if they were local. However, for quick transfers of one or two files, the built-in function is more convenient. Nearby Sharing in Windows 10/11.
This feature works over Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Direct, eliminating the need for complex network settings. Simply enable it in the notification center and select File -> Share -> the name of the nearby laptop. The recipient must confirm receipt of the file.
Diagnosing and troubleshooting visibility issues
Even with proper configuration, sometimes situations arise where computers cannot see each other. A common cause is Windows services that have been disabled for system "optimization." Check if the service is running correctly. Publishing discovery resources (Function Discovery Resource Publication).
Click Win + R, enter services.msc and find the specified service in the list. Set the startup type to "Automatic" and start it. Do the same for the "Discovery Service Provider Host" service.
Another common problem is port blocking by antivirus software. If you have a third-party antivirus installed (Kaspersky, ESET, Avast), it may perceive the local network as a threat.
- 🛡️ Check your Firewall or Network Protection settings in your antivirus.
- 🏠 Make sure your current network is marked as "Trusted" or "Home".
- 🚫 Try temporarily disabling your firewall for diagnostics.
⚠️ Attention: Router and operating system settings interfaces are constantly updated. The location of menu items may vary depending on the Windows version or router model (Asus, TP-Link, Keenetic). Always consult the manufacturer's official documentation if the standard path doesn't work.
If all else fails, try resetting your network settings. In Windows 10/11, you can do this via Settings -> Network & Internet -> Advanced network settings -> Network resetThis will reset all network components to factory defaults and require you to re-enter your Wi-Fi password.
Problem with SMBv1
In newer versions of Windows, the SMBv1 protocol is disabled by default due to vulnerabilities. If you're trying to connect to a very old device (Windows XP/7), you may need to enable SMB 1.0 support in Windows components, but this should only be done on an isolated network.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to connect laptops via Wi-Fi without a router?
Yes, this is possible. You can create a direct wireless connection (Ad-hoc) or use one of your laptops as a mobile hotspot. However, the speed and stability of such a connection are often lower than with a full-fledged router.
Why is the computer visible on the network, but the folder won't open?
Most likely, the issue is with the access rights to a specific folder or with your credentials. Try entering the username and password of the user on the computer where the folder is located when connecting. Also, check if your antivirus software is blocking the connection.
Does internet speed affect file transfer speed between laptops?
No, it doesn't. When transferring files over a local area network (LAN), the data goes directly from one device to another through the router, bypassing the ISP's connection. The speed will be limited only by the power of your Wi-Fi router and adapters.
How to find out the IP address of the second laptop?
On the second laptop, open the command prompt (cmd) and enter the command ipconfigFind the line labeled "IPv4 Address." You can also often see the IP address in the Wi-Fi connection properties under "Properties."