Modern users often need to quickly transfer large amounts of data between devices without the need for external storage. Wireless connections allow for information exchange or even control of one PC from another, even from different rooms in the same apartment. This solution is especially relevant for offices, where cable infrastructure is limited, or for home media centers.
Technically, the process of creating a connection between two computers via Wi-Fi router A direct connection doesn't require extensive programming knowledge. However, default operating system security settings often block device visibility, which can be confusing for beginners. In this article, we'll walk through all the setup steps, troubleshoot common errors, and establish a stable connection.
To successfully implement this plan, you'll need a working wireless adapter on each device. It's also crucial that both computers are within a strong signal range or connected to the same access point. Ignoring these basic requirements will result in the systems simply not being able to recognize each other in the network environment.
Checking hardware compatibility and preparation
Before starting software configuration, you need to make sure the hardware is ready for use. Most modern laptops and PCs already come with built-in modules. Wi-Fi 802.11ac or axIf you're using a desktop computer without a built-in module, you'll need an external USB adapter or PCIe card.
Please pay attention to the frequency range your devices operate in. For transferring large files, the range 5 GHz, as it provides higher throughput. Range 2.4 GHz can become a bottleneck, especially if there are a lot of neighboring networks on the air.
⚠️ Attention: Make sure the wireless adapter drivers are installed correctly. There shouldn't be any yellow exclamation marks next to any network controllers in Device Manager.
There are two main connection scenarios: via an existing router and a direct computer-to-computer connection. The first option is simpler and allows both computers to access the internet simultaneously. The second option requires more detailed manual configuration but doesn't rely on an active router.
Setting up a single local network via a router
The most common method is to connect devices to a single local area network (LAN) using a wireless router. This requires both computers to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. The operating system typically classifies such networks as "Private" or "Home," which automatically allows device discovery.
If a network is marked as "Public," Windows blocks incoming connections for security reasons. You need to change the network profile to private. You can do this through network settings or the Control Panel. After changing the profile, the system will allow other devices to see your computer.
It's important to check that the IP addresses of both computers are in the same subnet. Typically, the router assigns addresses automatically. DHCP, and they look like 192.168.1.X or 192.168.0.XIf the addresses differ in the third digit (for example, 192.168.1.5 And 192.168.0.5), direct data exchange without routing is not possible.
The process of setting up a network profile in Windows 10/11 is as follows:
- 📡 Click the Wi-Fi icon in the tray and select "Properties" for the active network.
- 🏠 In the "Network Profile" section, toggle the switch to "Private."
- 👁️ Go to Sharing Options and turn on network discovery.
- 💾 Save the changes and restart your computer to apply the settings.
Establishing a direct computer-to-computer connection
If you don't have a router handy, you can create a makeshift network where one computer broadcasts Wi-Fi and the other connects to it. In Windows, this feature is called "Mobile Hotspot." The source computer broadcasts the signal, and the target computer connects to it like a regular router.
To implement this method, on the first PC, go to Settings and find the "Mobile Hotspot" section. Here, you need to select the adapter that will be used for internet sharing (if applicable), or simply create a local network. Set a network name (SSID) and a strong password to protect against unauthorized connections.
The second computer should find the created network in the list of available connections and enter the password. Once successfully connected, both devices will be connected to the same local network, even without internet access. Throughput in this mode may be lower than when connecting through a router due to the way the Wi-Fi adapter operates in access point emulation mode.
⚠️ Attention: When using a mobile hotspot, the antivirus on the receiving computer may block incoming connections, considering the network unknown. Add the network to your trusted list.
An alternative method is to create a computer-to-computer (Ad-Hoc) network, although this functionality is hidden in modern versions of Windows and requires the use of the command line. This method is less stable and often requires manually assigning IP addresses to both devices so they can "see" each other.
Setting up shared access to files and folders
Once a physical connection is established, you need to configure access rights to resources. You can't simply copy a file to another drive—the operating system will protect the data. You need to explicitly specify which folders will be shared.
Select the folder you plan to share, right-click it, and select "Properties." Go to the "Sharing" tab and click "Advanced." Here, check "Share this folder" and configure user permissions.
☑️ Access setup checklist
There's an important caveat regarding passwords. By default, Windows requires the user on the remote computer to have the same login and password as yours. To simplify access, you can disable password protection in the Network and Sharing Center, but this will reduce the security of your local network.
For professional work with files, the protocol is often used SMBMake sure "SMB Client 1.0" (if you need to access older NAS) and "SMB Server" are enabled in Windows components. Without these components, file sharing may be impossible or extremely slow.
| Parameter | Recommended value | Impact on work |
|---|---|---|
| Network profile | Private | Opens ports for local exchange |
| Network discovery | Included | The PC becomes visible in the list of devices |
| File sharing | On | Allows reading/writing data |
| Password protection | Disabled (for home) | Simplifies login without creating duplicate accounts |
Remote Desktop Control (RDP and TeamViewer)
When connecting to another computer, users often mean not just transferring files, but full screen control. Windows has a built-in Remote Desktop (RDP) feature that allows you to view the remote PC's screen and control it with your mouse.
To enable RDP on the target computer (the one you're connecting to), go to "System" -> "Remote Desktop" and turn on the toggle. Please note that Windows Home doesn't allow you to accept incoming RDP connections, only initiate them. You'll need the Pro or Enterprise version.
How to connect if the computers are in different cities?
To connect via the internet (not local Wi-Fi), standard RDP requires setting up port forwarding on the router, which is unsafe. It's better to use third-party utilities like AnyDesk or TeamViewer, which handle NAT automatically.
If the built-in tools don't suit you or your Windows version doesn't support session hosting, use cross-platform solutions. Programs like AnyDesk, TeamViewer or RustDesk work over a Wi-Fi connection and do not require complex configuration of IP addresses and ports.
When using a remote desktop, Wi-Fi speed is critical. Latency (ping) above 50 ms can make working with graphics or video uncomfortable. In such cases, it is recommended to lower the remote session screen resolution or disable visual effects in the RDP settings.
Diagnosing problems and troubleshooting errors
Even with proper configuration, situations may arise where computers cannot see each other. The most common cause is a firewall blocking the connection. Windows may detect a new network and apply strict security rules, blocking ICMP requests (pings) and SMB ports.
Use the command line to diagnose the issue. Try pinging the IP address of the second computer with the command ping 192.168.1.XXIf packets are lost, there's no physical connection or it's blocked at a low level. If there's a response but no folders, there's a problem with the access settings.
⚠️ Attention: Router interfaces and operating system versions are constantly updated. The layout of menu items may differ from those described. Always consult the latest documentation from your equipment manufacturer.
It's also worth checking your Windows services. The Discovery Resource Publishing and SSDP Search services should be running. If they are stopped manually or by an antivirus program, the computer will not be able to advertise itself on the network. Check their status in the menu. services.msc.
Wireless connection security
When setting up a network between computers, remember security. Openly accessing files in public places (cafes, airports) is a direct route to data leakage. Always use encryption. WPA2/WPA3 for your Wi-Fi network.
If you use shared folders, set strong passwords for user accounts. Don't use an Administrator account with a blank password for network operations. An attacker who gains access to your Wi-Fi network could gain complete control of the system.
After finishing working with shared resources, it's recommended to disable network discovery or delete saved credentials in the Windows Credential Manager. This will prevent automatic connections to potentially unsafe networks in the future.
Why can't my computer see another computer on the network?
Most often, the problem lies in the "Public" network profile, which hides the PC. Another cause is different workgroups (although this is less critical in Windows 10/11). Also, check if your antivirus software is blocking the local network.
What is the maximum transfer speed for Wi-Fi?
Theoretical speed depends on the standard: Wi-Fi 4 (up to 600 Mbps), Wi-Fi 5 (up to 6.9 Gbps), Wi-Fi 6 (up to 9.6 Gbps). Actual file copy speeds are typically 50-60% of the theoretical speed due to protocol overhead.
Is it possible to connect a computer to Wi-Fi without a password?
Only if the network is open (not recommended) or if you use WPS technology by pressing a button on the router. For a direct connection to another PC, the password is set by the user creating the hotspot.
How to find out the IP address of another computer?
On the target computer, open a command prompt and type ipconfigOr look at the list of clients in your router's web interface in the LAN/DHCP section.