Modern work often requires rapid data exchange between devices, and flash drives are no longer the only effective solution. When it comes to quickly transferring gigabytes of information or managing a remote workstation, the most logical step is establishing a wireless connection over a local network. This not only saves time but also allows you to work with another computer's resources as if they were on your own drive.
In the operating system Windows 10 Networking mechanisms have undergone a number of changes compared to previous versions, often confusing users. Standard security protocols and new Microsoft privacy policies require properly configured network profiles and services for successful device discovery. Without proper configuration, laptops, even in the same room and connected to the same router, may simply not "see" each other.
In this article, we'll walk you through the entire setup process, from changing the network type to launching specialized services that ensure a stable connection. You'll learn how to enable folder sharing, how to use built-in remote management tools, and the protocol nuances. SMB This must be taken into account for trouble-free operation. Proper configuration will eliminate the need for third-party software and cables.
Checking network settings and profile type
The first and most critical step is to ensure both laptops are on the same network with the correct access rights. By default, when you first connect to a new Wi-Fi network, Windows 10 assigns it the "Public" profile, automatically hiding your computer from other devices for security reasons. To establish local communication, you must change this status to "Private" on both devices so the system can detect them.
This can be done through the system settings, where network profile management is located in a separate menu. You need to go to Settings → Network & Internet → Status and click the active connection's properties. This is where the switch changes the network card's operating mode, opening ports for local data exchange.
⚠️ Important: Only change your network type if you're in a trusted location (home or office). In public hotspots (cafes, airports), leaving your network profile set to "Public" protects your personal data from prying eyes.
After changing the profile, the system will apply the new firewall rules, allowing incoming connections for device discovery. If this isn't done, any further sharing will be futile, as the firewall will block connection requests. Ensure that the Wi-Fi icon on both laptops is lit, shows "Connected," and there are no warnings about access restrictions.
Setting up sharing options
Once the network profile has been changed, you need to enable the corresponding features in the Network and Sharing Center. Windows 10 provides a flexible tool for configuring which resources will be available to other users on the local network. Ignoring this step is the most common reason why users are unable to connect to another laptop, even though it appears in the list of network devices.
To access the required menu, open the Control Panel, go to the Network and Internet section, then Network and Sharing Center, and select Change advanced sharing settings. Here, we're interested in the Private tab, which contains the key switches.
- 🔍 Enable network discovery: Allows your laptop to see and be visible to other devices.
- 📂 Enable file and printer sharing: Allows access to shared folders and peripherals.
- 🔑 Enable password-protected sharing: requires entering your account login and password when connecting (recommended for security).
It's important to note that enabling password protection adds a layer of security, but requires identical usernames and passwords on both laptops or the remote machine's login information. Disabling this option will allow access to anyone connected to your Wi-Fi, which can be risky.
⚠️ Note: The Control Panel interface may vary slightly across different Windows 10 builds (Home, Pro, Enterprise). If you don't see this option, check the "All Networks" section in the same menu where you can find additional settings.
Creating a shared folder for data exchange
Simply enabling sharing isn't enough—you need to tell the system which directories are ready for sharing. You can share any folder on your drive, whether it's documents, photos, or a folder containing software installers. This turns your laptop into a kind of local file server.
To grant access, right-click the desired folder, select "Properties," and then go to the "Sharing" tab. Clicking "Shared" will open the user management window. Here, you need to add the user "Everyone" (or a specific user) if you want to allow access without complex permissions configuration, and set the permission level (read or read and write).
net share SharedFolder=C:\Users\Public\Documents /grant:Everyone,FullAn alternative and more advanced method is to use the "Security" tab in the folder properties. Here you can fine-tune the permissions for system groups. For example, the group Network You can grant full rights, which will ensure that there are no access errors when trying to write a file from another laptop over the network.
☑️ Folder setup checklist
Connect via Remote Desktop (RDP)
If your goal is not just to transfer files, but to fully control the second laptop, see its screen and run programs, you will need technology Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)**. This feature is built into Windows 10, but it's disabled by default on Home editions, requiring Pro or Enterprise editions.
To activate, go to "Settings" → "System" → "Remote Desktop" and toggle the slider to "On." The system will warn you that the computer must be turned on and configured to be discoverable. The computer name, which you'll need to connect, is also displayed here.
On the second laptop from which you will be controlling the remote desktop, you need to launch the Remote Desktop Connection application. It can be found in the Start menu or launched by the command mstscIn the "Computer" field, enter the IP address or name of the remote laptop, after which the system will request credentials.
| Parameter | Description | Where to find |
|---|---|---|
| Computer name | Unique network name of the device | Settings → System → About |
| IP address | Local address on a Wi-Fi network | cmd → ipconfig |
| User | Windows account login | Settings → Accounts |
| Port | Standard port for RDP | 3389 (default) |
It's worth remembering that when connected via RDP, the screen of the controlled laptop is locked, preventing local access. This is a protocol feature designed to prevent input conflicts. If you need to stream images rather than control them, it's better to use specialized software like TeamViewer or AnyDesk.
What to do if RDP doesn't work on Windows 10 Home?
In the Home version of Windows 10, the RDP server feature is officially disabled. You can use third-party patches (such as RDP Wrapper), but this violates the license agreement and may cause issues with security updates. It's better to use alternatives like Chrome Remote Desktop.
Access via network environment and IP address
Automatic discovery often fails, and computers don't appear in the "Network" list. In this case, the most reliable method is to connect directly via IP address. This allows you to bypass discovery services and access the network interface of the desired device directly.
First, you need to find out the local IP address of the target laptop. On it, you need to open a command prompt (by pressing Win + R and entering cmd) and execute the command ipconfigWe are interested in the "IPv4 address" line, which usually looks like 192.168.xx
Knowing this address, on the second laptop, open File Explorer and in the address bar, enter two backslashes followed by the IP address, for example: \\192.168.1.55After pressing Enter, the system will attempt to establish a connection. If all sharing settings are correct, a window will open with a list of available shared folders.
- 🌐 The Straight Path: Using an IP address eliminates DNS and NetBIOS name errors.
- 🔒 Authorization: The system will prompt you for the login and password of the remote PC account.
- 💾 Preservation: You can check the "Remember credentials" box to avoid having to enter them each time.
Solving common connection problems
Even if you follow all the instructions, situations may arise where the connection is lost or devices remain invisible. Most often, the problem lies with antivirus software or network card power-saving settings. Third-party firewalls may block incoming connections, deeming them suspicious.
It's also worth checking the Function Discovery Resource Publishing service. If it's stopped, the computer won't broadcast its capabilities to the network. You can start it through services (services.msc), find “Function Discovery Resource Publication” in the list and set the startup type to “Automatic”.
⚠️ Note: Antivirus programs (Kaspersky, ESET, Avast) often have their own built-in firewalls that ignore Windows settings. If all else fails, try temporarily disabling network protection in the antivirus interface to test.
Another important aspect is protocol. SMB 1.0In newer versions of Windows 10, it's disabled by default due to vulnerabilities, but some older devices or network-attached storage (NAS) devices require it. You should only enable it if you're confident in the security of your local network. Do so via Control Panel → Programs and Features → Turn Windows features on or off.
Why can't my laptop see another laptop on the network?
Most likely, the devices have different network profile types (one on a public network, the other on a private network), or network discovery is disabled. Also, check if the SSDP Discovery service is enabled.
Is it possible to connect to a laptop via WiFi without a router?
Yes, you can create a direct wireless connection (Ad-hoc) or use the Mobile Hotspot feature on one laptop to allow the other one to connect to it as an access point.
What is the WiFi data transfer speed in a local network?
Speed depends on the Wi-Fi router standard and adapters. At 2.4 GHz, actual speeds rarely exceed 4-6 MB/s, while 5 GHz (AC/AX standard) allows for speeds of 40-80 MB/s and higher.
Is internet required for a local network to function?
No, internet access is not required. Both devices need to be connected to the same router (even without a WAN cable) or directly. The local network operates autonomously.