How to connect a computer to a laptop via Wi-Fi: all methods + step-by-step instructions

Connecting a desktop computer to a laptop wirelessly solves several problems: from transferring files without flash drives to setting up a remote desktop or sharing internet from a mobile device. However, many users encounter problems setting up this connection—the network isn't detected, the password isn't correct, or the data transfer speed leaves much to be desired.

In this article we will look at All current methods for connecting a PC to a laptop via Wi-Fi, including creation ad-hoc-networks, using the function Mobile hotspot in Windows, setup via Command Prompt and even options for Linux/macOSWe will pay special attention to typical errors (for example, Error 1068 when starting a distribution) and how to resolve them. If you need to do more than just transfer files, but rather organize full-fledged network interaction, you'll find working solutions here.

1. Preparing devices: what to check before connecting

Before setting up the connection, make sure both devices meet the minimum requirements. This will save time and avoid common issues.

Laptop (access point) requirements:

• 🔹 Wi-Fi adapter with mode support SoftAP (most modern adapters support it, but it may not work on older models).
• 🔹 Windows 7 and above (for ad-hoc will do too XP, but with restrictions). On macOS or Linux additional commands will be required.
• 🔹 Administrator rights to change network settings.
• 🔹 Free IP address in the range 192.168.x.x (usually Assigns automatically, but if you configure it manually, check for any conflicts).

Requirements for a desktop PC (client):

• 🔹 Wi-Fi adapter (built-in or external USB). If it is not there, the connection is impossible - you will have to use Ethernet or buy an adapter.
• 🔹 Compatible version Windows/Linux/macOS (For Windows XP Drivers may be required for Wi-Fi Direct).
• 🔹 Disabled firewalls or antivirus software (e.g. Kaspersky or Avast often blocked ad-hoc-networks).

Also, make sure both devices have the latest network adapter drivers installed. Outdated drivers are a common cause of errors like "Failed to start hosted network"You can update them through device Manager (Win + X → Device Manager → Network Adapters) or from the official website of the manufacturer (for example, Intel, Realtek, Broadcom).

⚠️ Attention: On some laptops with Wi-Fi 6 (For example, Dell XPS 13 2020+ or MacBook Pro M1) standard network distribution through Mobile hotspot may not work due to manufacturer limitations. In this case, use PowerShell or third-party utilities like Connectify.

2. Method 1: Creation ad-hoc-networks in Windows (without a router)

Ad-hoc (from Latin "for this") is a temporary point-to-point network that allows two devices to be directly connected without a router. This method is suitable for file transfer or remote control, but not for distributing the Internet (unless the laptop itself is connected to the network via Ethernet).

Instructions for Windows 10/11:

1. Open Control Panel → Network and Sharing Center.
2. Select Setting up a new connection or network → Setting up a wireless ad hoc network (V Windows 11 This item may be missing - see alternative below).
3. Set network parameters:
   • 📛 Network Name (SSID): any (for example, PC-to-Laptop).
   • 🔐 Security type: WPA2-Personal (the safest).
   • 🔑 Security Key: at least 8 characters (for example, 12345678Qq).

If your version of Windows does not have this option ad-hoc, use Command line:

netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode=allow ssid=MyAdHoc key=12345678
netsh wlan start hostednetwork

After executing the commands, the network will appear in the list of available networks on your desktop computer. Connect to it using the specified password.

Make sure Wi-Fi is enabled on your laptop|Check that the network is visible on your PC (refresh the list of networks)|Connect by entering the correct password|Check the availability of devices via ping V CMD-->

⚠️ Attention: IN Windows 11 support ad-hoc removed through the graphical interface. If the commands netsh don't work, update your Wi-Fi adapter driver or use PowerShell:

New-NetVirtualizationProviderRoute -DestinationPrefix "0.0.0.0/0" -InterfaceIndex (Get-NetAdapter | Where-Object {$_.Name -like "Wi-Fi"}).ifIndex -NextHop 0.0.0.0

This command will reset the routes and can help with the error 1068.

3. Method 2: Sharing Wi-Fi via Mobile Hotspot (Windows 10/11)

Function Mobile hotspot appeared in Windows 10 and allows you to share your laptop's internet connection with other devices, including a desktop PC. This method is convenient if your laptop is connected to the internet via Ethernet or 4G modem, and you want to "share" the connection.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Open Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile Hotspot.
2. In the field Sharing an Internet connection select a source (eg Ethernet or Wireless network, if the laptop is connected to a router).
3. Click Change and ask:
   • 📛 Network name: up to 32 characters (for example, Laptop_Hotspot).
   • 🔑 Network password: minimum 8 characters (use letters and numbers).

On your desktop computer, find the created network in the Wi-Fi list and connect. If you can't connect to the internet, check:

• 🔄 Restart both devices.
• 🛠️ Update the Wi-Fi adapter driver on your laptop.
• 🔍 In Device Manager Make sure the adapter supports AP-mode (access point mode).

Mobile Hotspot in Windows|Ad-hoc Network|Third-party programs (Connectify, MyPublicWiFi)|Another way-->

4. Method 3: Connecting via Wi-Fi Direct (for modern devices)

Wi-Fi Direct — is a technology that allows devices to connect directly without creating a separate network. It is supported by most modern laptops and PCs with adapters. Wi-Fi 4 and newer. The main advantage is high transmission speed (up to 250 Mbps) and easy setup.

How to connect:

1. Turn on your laptop Wi-Fi Direct:
   • IN Windows 10/11: Settings → Devices → Add Bluetooth or other device → Wireless display or dock.
   • On macOS: use AirDrop (but this is a separate technology, not Wi-Fi Direct).

netsh wlan show drivers

sudo apt install hostapd dnsmasq
sudo systemctl stop hostapd
sudo systemctl stop dnsmasq

interface=wlan0
driver=nl80211
ssid=MyLinuxHotspot
hw_mode=g
channel=6
wpa=2
wpa_passphrase=12345678
wpa_key_mgmt=WPA-PSK

sudo hostapd /etc/hostapd/hostapd.conf

Step 2: Share the folder:

1. Right-click on the folder → Properties → Access.
2. Click Share and select a user All (or create a new one).
3. Set permissions (eg Reading and writing).

Step 3. Connect from another device:

1. Open Conductor and enter in the address bar \\[laptop IP address] (For example, \\192.168.137.1).
2. Enter your laptop account login and password (if required).

For macOS use AFP or SMB (V Finder → Go → Connect to Server enter smb://[IP address]). On Linux mount the network folder via NAUTILUS or the command:

sudo mount -t cifs //192.168.x.x/share /mnt/share -o username=user,password=pass

8. Solving typical connection problems

Even with proper setup, errors can still occur. Here are the most common ones and how to fix them:

Error	Cause	Solution
Failed to start hosted network (Error 1068)	Service or driver conflict	Restart services: net stop wlansvc net start wlansvc Or update the adapter driver.
The network is visible but does not connect.	Incorrect password or security type	Please check the case of your password. Use WPA2-PSK.
No internet access	Incorrect sharing settings	IN Connection properties turn on Allow other network users to share your Internet connection.
Slow file transfer speed	Interference or outdated protocol (802.11b/g)	Change the Wi-Fi channel to 5 GHz (if the adapter supports it) or move the devices closer.

If the problem persists, check:

• 🔌 Physical connection: Make sure your Wi-Fi adapters are turned on (some laptops have a hardware switch).
• 🔄 IP Conflicts: Enter in CMD on both devices:

  ipconfig /release
  ipconfig /renew

• 🛡️ Firewall: Temporarily disable it or add an exception for file-sharing ports (TCP 445, 139).

⚠️ Attention: On some corporate laptops (e.g. with Windows 10 Pro (in the domain) security policies may block Wi-Fi distribution. In this case, contact your administrator or use an external USB Wi-Fi adapter.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to connect a PC to a laptop via Wi-Fi if the PC does not have a Wi-Fi adapter?
No, a Wi-Fi adapter is required on both devices for a wireless connection. If your PC doesn't have one, you can:
• Buy external USB Wi-Fi adapter (from 500 rubles).
• Use Ethernet cable (direct connection).
• Tune Bluetooth-connection (but the speed will be very low).

iperf3 -s

iperf3 -c [IP address]

netsh wlan delete hostednetwork