Organizing data exchange between devices within a single apartment or office is a challenge faced by almost every PC user. Instead of using flash drives to transfer files or setting up complex cloud storage, establishing a direct connection is much more efficient and faster. A local network allows you to not only transfer large video files and documents in seconds, but also play online games or manage your media library on your TV.
Modern wireless technologies They eliminate the need for extra cables by utilizing your existing Wi-Fi infrastructure. If both your computers are connected to the same router, half the work is already done. All that remains is to properly configure the operating system software so that the devices "see" each other and receive the necessary access rights.
In this guide, we'll walk you through a step-by-step process for the Windows operating system, applicable to most modern versions. We'll cover protocol settings, managing network discovery, and resolving common access issues that may arise during the configuration process.
Equipment check and preliminary preparation
Before proceeding with software configuration, you need to ensure that the hardware is physically ready. The key to successfully creating a network is that both computers are on the same subnet. This means they must be connected to the same router, whether via Wi-Fi or Ethernet cable.
Check the router's indicator lights: if the WLAN light or the corresponding LAN port is lit, the connection is established correctly. Also, make sure the network adapter is enabled on both devices and the drivers are working correctly. There shouldn't be any exclamation marks next to the network controllers in Device Manager.
For stable operation, it's best to have both computers within a strong signal range. If one laptop is only receiving a single network connection, data transfer rates will be extremely slow, and the connection may be subject to frequent interruptions.
- 📶 Make sure both PCs are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- 💻 Check that the IP addresses of the devices are in the same range (e.g. 192.168.1.x).
- 🔌 Make sure your antivirus isn't blocking local connections.
Setting up network type and discovery in Windows
The first critical step is to change the network profile to "Private." By default, Windows often assigns new connections the "Public" profile, which hides your computer from other devices for security reasons. For a local network, trust between devices is essential.
To edit your profile, go to Settings → Network and Internet → Wi-FiClick the name of your current network and toggle the switch to "Private." This will enable network discovery, making your PC visible to other members of your local group.
Next, you need to activate the sharing features. 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.
Pay attention to the bottom of the sharing settings window. There's an "All Networks" option there, where you can disable password-protected access if you want to simplify logging in without having to enter your username and password each time. However, in a home environment with trusted devices, this is acceptable.
Configuring SMB protocols and services
One common reason why computers can't communicate with each other is a disabled SMB 1.0 protocol or missing necessary components. Although Microsoft recommends disabling older versions of the protocol for security reasons, enabling it is sometimes necessary for compatibility with older devices or printers.
To check and install components, go to Control Panel → Programs and Features → Turn Windows features on or offFind "SMB 1.0/CIFS File Sharing Support" in the list and ensure that both the clients and the server are checked if your specific situation requires it.
It's also worth checking the "Function Discovery Resource Publishing" service. Click Win + R, enter services.msc and find the service with the name "Discovery" in the list. Make sure it's running and the startup type is set to "Automatic."
⚠️ Attention: SMB version 1.0 is vulnerable to ransomware. Unless you need to connect to very old devices (such as a 10-year-old NAS), it's best to leave it disabled and use SMB 2 or 3.
Sharing folders and drives
Once the network settings are configured, you need to grant access to specific data. Select the folder you want to share, right-click it, and select "Properties." Go to the "Sharing" tab and click "Advanced Settings."
Check the "Share this folder" box. In the "Permissions" section, you can configure what actions other users can perform: read-only, modify, or full access. For a home network, "Modify" permissions are usually sufficient.
There's also a "Security" tab in the folder's properties. Here, it's important to add the "Everyone" user (or a specific network user) and grant them the appropriate permissions. Failure to do so may result in the system denying access even with open network access.
☑️ Checking a shared folder
To quickly access a shared folder from another computer, you can use a direct path. Click Win + R and enter the IP address of the first computer in the format \\192.168.1.XXIf everything is configured correctly, a window will open with a list of available folders.
Troubleshooting connection and access issues
Even with the correct settings, conflicts can still occur. Often, the problem lies with the Windows firewall or third-party antivirus software, which block incoming connections. Try temporarily disabling the firewall and checking for connectivity.
Another common error is an IP address conflict or a malfunctioning DNS service. If computers are on the same network but can't see each other's names, try using IP addresses instead of computer names when connecting.
It's also worth checking whether the Computer Browser service is enabled; although its role has been reduced in modern versions of Windows 10 and 11, it can still affect how your PC displays in your network environment.
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution method |
|---|---|---|
| Computers can't see each other. | Network Profile "Public" | Switch to "Private" in Wi-Fi settings |
| Asks for a password when logging in | Password protection is enabled | Disable in Network and Sharing Center or enter your account password |
| No access to the folder | No rights to the Security tab | Add user "Everyone" with read/write permissions |
| Very low speed | Weak Wi-Fi signal | Move closer to the router or use a cable |
What to do if Windows says "Unable to access"?
Try entering your credentials manually. Click "Connect as a different user" and enter the remote computer's administrator username and password. Also, make sure the computer name doesn't contain any Cyrillic or special characters.
Using the command line for diagnostics
For advanced users, the command line is a useful tool. It can be used to quickly check the connection between devices. Open the terminal (cmd) and enter the command ping [IP address of the second PC].
If you receive a "Timeout exceeded" response, it means packets aren't getting through. This could be due to a firewall blocking the ICMP protocol or a physical connection interruption. If the response is "Reply from...," it means there's a physical connection, and the problem lies in access rights.
The command is also useful ipconfig /all, which will display a full list of network settings, including DNS servers and the adapter's MAC address. This will help ensure you're on the correct subnet.
ping 192.168.1.105ipconfig /flushdns
nbtstat -n
Local network security
When sharing files, you must be aware of the risks. If a stranger (for example, a neighbor who has cracked the password) connects to your Wi-Fi router, they will have access to all shared resources. Therefore, a strong Wi-Fi password is essential.
It's not recommended to share system drives (C:\) or document folders with full permissions. Create separate folders for sharing, such as "File Sharing," and grant permissions only to those.
⚠️ Attention: If you connect to public Wi-Fi (at a cafe or airport), never enable "Private Network" mode or share your connection. Your PC can be vulnerable to attack in public places.
Regularly check the list of connected devices in your router interface. If you see an unfamiliar device, immediately change your Wi-Fi password and check your security settings.
Is it possible to hide a folder from public view?
Yes, if you add a dollar sign to the end of the folder name when creating a share (e.g., Files$), the folder won't appear in the shared list, and you'll only be able to access it with the exact path.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to create a local network if one computer is running Windows and the other is running macOS?
Yes, this is possible. On a Mac, go to System Preferences → Sharing and enable File Sharing. Then add a folder and configure permissions. To connect from Windows, enter smb://Mac-IP-Address in the File Explorer address bar.
Why does the Network Places icon disappear in File Explorer?
In Windows 10 and 11, Microsoft removed the classic "Network Places" from Quick Access. To see computers, you need to enter "Network Places" in the File Explorer address bar. \\localhost or IP address, or add the “Network” icon through the menu “View” → “Show” → “Network”.
Does internet speed affect file transfer speed in a local area network?
No, it doesn't. Data transfer speed within a local network depends only on the speed of your router (Wi-Fi ac, ax, n) and the power of your network cards. The internet connection isn't used.
How to pin a network folder as a separate drive?
In File Explorer, right-click "This PC" → "Map network drive." Select the drive letter and enter the path to the folder. It will now appear in "My Computer" as a regular drive (e.g., Z:).