Creating a local area network (LAN) within an apartment or office is no longer the preserve of system administrators. Modern users often face the need to quickly transfer large amounts of data between devices without the use of external drives or cloud services. Local area network It allows you to not only share files, but also play online games, share printers, and even control one computer from another.
The main advantage of a wireless connection is that it eliminates the need to run cables throughout the house. However, for the system to work reliably, it needs to be configured correctly. protocols and security settings. Unlike a wired connection, WiFi requires more careful attention to signal strength and router settings, as the radio channel is susceptible to interference.
In this article, we'll explore proven methods for connecting PCs into a single network. You'll learn how to avoid common mistakes when setting up shared access and how to ensure maximum data transfer speeds. The key is to make sure all devices are on the same subnet and have the correct Windows network profile.
Requirements for creating a wireless network
Before proceeding with software settings, make sure your equipment is ready for use. The core element of any WiFi network is a router, which acts as an access point and traffic distributor. All connected computers must have working hardware. wireless adapters, supporting standards no lower than 802.11n (WiFi 4) for comfortable speed.
It's important that all devices are within a strong signal range. Walls, mirrors, and household appliances can significantly weaken radio waves, resulting in slower speeds or connection interruptions. If you plan to transfer large files, it's recommended to use a broadband range. 5 GHz, which is less loaded with neighboring networks.
⚠️ Attention: If one computer is connected via cable and the other via WiFi, make sure that the router does not separate them into different virtual networks (guest network), otherwise they will not see each other.
- 📡 A working WiFi router with DHCP enabled
- 💻 Computers with working network adapters
- 🔑 Knowing the WiFi network password or access to the router
- 🔌 Stable power supply for equipment
Setting up a network profile in Windows
By default, the Windows operating system limits your computer's visibility on public networks for security reasons. To allow other devices to discover your PC, you need to change the network profile from "Public" to "Private." This tells the system that you're in a trusted environment, such as your home.
To do this, go to Settings → Network and Internet → Wi-Fi and click on your network name. In the menu that opens, select "Private" as the network type. The system will then allow device discovery and enable the necessary services for working on the local network.
It's also worth checking your sharing settings. Go to Control Panel → Network and Sharing Center → Change advanced sharing settingsHere you need to enable network discovery and file and printer sharing for the current profile.
Single workgroup name and IP addressing
For all computers on the network to function correctly, they must belong to the same workgroup. By default, Windows uses the name WORKGROUPChanging it to something else only makes sense in specific corporate environments; in a home environment, it's best to leave the default value.
You can check and change the workgroup name through the “My Computer” (System Properties) menu. Click Win + Pause/Break or go to System → Advanced system settingsOn the Computer Name tab, make sure that the same group name is specified on all PCs.
As for IP addresses, in most cases it is sufficient to leave the automatic acquisition of addresses through DHCPThe router will automatically assign each device a unique address within the same subnet (e.g., 192.168.1.x). If automatic assignment doesn't work, you can enter the addresses manually, but this requires careful attention.
How to manually enter an IP address?
Go to TCP/IPv4 properties. Specify the IP: 192.168.1.15 (for the first PC) and 192.168.1.16 (for the second). Subnet mask: 255.255.255.0. Gateway: 192.168.1.1. DNS can be left as automatic or specified as 8.8.8.8.
Organizing shared access to folders and files
Once the computers are successfully connected, you need to grant access to specific resources. Simply having a network connection isn't enough—you must explicitly tell the system which folders other users can see. This is done through the folder properties on the "Access" tab.
Select the desired folder, right-click it, and select "Properties." Go to the "Sharing" tab and click "Advanced." Check "Share this folder" and set permissions by clicking "Permissions." Here you can choose whether other users can only read files or also modify and delete them.
There's also a "Share with" feature, which is faster but offers fewer settings. For home networks, the "Everyone" account is often used, but this reduces security. It's better to use specific user accounts with passwords.
☑️ Check access settings
Comparison of connection methods and their characteristics
There are several ways to organize data exchange, and the choice depends on your goals. You can use built-in Windows tools, third-party software, or cloud technologies. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, which are worth considering.
Built-in Windows tools (SMB protocol) are the most versatile, but can be tricky to configure. Third-party programs are often easier to use but require installation on all computers. Below is a table comparing the key features of the various approaches.
| Method | Speed | Complexity | Security |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMB (Windows) | High | Average | High |
| FTP Server | Very high | High | Average |
| Synchronization (Resilio) | Depends on the software | Low | High |
| Cloud (Google Drive) | Low (channel limit) | Very low | Depends on the provider |
When choosing a method, consider your network usage. A flash drive or cable will suffice for a one-time movie transfer, but for ongoing document management, a full-fledged network drive is better.
Solving common visibility problems
A common problem is when the network is online, but computers don't see each other in the Network Neighborhood. This is primarily due to detection services being blocked by an antivirus or firewall. Ensure that the firewall rules allow this. private profile networks.
Another common cause is a disabled "Function Discovery Resource Publishing" service. You can find it in the list of services (services.msc). If it's stopped, start it and set the startup type to "Automatic." Restarting the "Browser Computer" service also helps.
⚠️ Attention: Operating system and router interfaces may differ depending on the software version. If you don't find the menu item described, check the official documentation from your device manufacturer.
Sometimes a simple reset of network settings helps. In the command prompt, run as administrator, and run the command netsh winsock reset, and then restart your computer. This will clear the network protocol cache and resolve any software conflicts.
Alternative methods of data transfer
If standard methods don't work or seem too complicated, you can use specialized software. Programs like Resilio Sync or Syncthing They create a direct connection between devices, bypassing complex Windows settings. They operate over a local network and don't require an internet connection.
You can also deploy an FTP server on one of the computers. This will allow you to connect to files as if they were a network drive from any device, including smartphones and tablets. Lightweight servers like FileZilla Server or the built-in capabilities of IIS are suitable for this.
Don't forget about physical methods either. If you need to transfer 100 GB of data and your WiFi is unstable, using an external hard drive or a LAN cable (even without a router, directly between the PCs) will be the fastest and most reliable solution. A direct cable connection requires a static IP address, but provides the highest speed.
Why can't computers see each other even though WiFi is connected?
Most often, the problem lies in the network profile. If Windows considers the network "Public," it hides the computer from others. Another cause is different workgroup names. A third is blocking by an antivirus program.
Is internet required for a local network to function?
No, internet access is not required. The local network works between devices regardless of internet access. A router is only needed as a switch, even if the ISP cable is not connected.
Is it safe to share folders?
On a home network with a strong WiFi password, yes. In public places (cafes, airports), enabling network discovery and sharing is strongly discouraged, as your files could become accessible to hackers.