Establishing a local connection between devices often becomes necessary for quickly transferring large amounts of data, collaborating on projects, or setting up a game server. Wi-Fi adapters Allows you to create a fully functional network without the need for cables or a central router. This solution is ideal for temporary offices, business trips, or situations where wired infrastructure is unavailable.
In this article, we will examine in detail the process of creating a direct connection. PC-to-PC, using the built-in tools of the operating system WindowsYou'll learn how to properly configure profiles, enable access to shared folders, and troubleshoot common connection errors. Proper configuration will ensure stable transfer speeds and protect your data from unauthorized access.
Before you begin configuring software, you need to make sure your hardware is working properly. Make sure both computers have working versions installed. wireless modules and drivers. This is a basic requirement, without which further manipulations are meaningless.
Selecting a connection method and preparing equipment
There are several ways to connect two PCs, and the specific method you choose depends on your hardware and operating system version. The most common option is to create Ad-Hoc networks, where one computer acts as a virtual router. In more modern versions of Windows, such as 10 and 11, this functionality has been transformed into "Mobile Hotspot" mode, which significantly simplifies the process.
If you are using specialized network cards, they may support the mode Wi-Fi Direct, which provides higher connection speed and stability compared to standard methods. However, for most users, the built-in OS tools are sufficient. It's important to understand that when creating such a network, one computer becomes the "host," and the other connects as a client.
⚠️ Warning: When using the built-in hotspot mode on one of the laptops, access to the global Internet via Wi-Fi may be temporarily disabled, as the adapter switches to distribution mode.
Make sure discovery services are enabled on both devices. No activation network services Computers simply won't "see" each other in the list of available devices, even if a connection is formally established. This is a common error that leads to wasted time on repeated connection attempts.
Network profile setup and discovery
The first critical step is to change your network profile from "Public" to "Private." By default, Windows considers any new connection potentially unsafe and hides your computer from other devices. You need to go to your network settings and change this status to allow it. device discovery.
To do this, open the "Settings" menu and go to "Network & Internet." In the active connection properties, select the "Private" network type. This will unblock the necessary ports and protocols for local data exchange. Without this step, files will not transfer even if the password is entered correctly.
Next, you need to make sure that the function is enabled Network DiscoveryGo to "Control Panel," select "Network and Sharing Center," and click "Change advanced sharing settings." Enable the following options:
- 🔍 Enable network discovery.
- 💾 Enable file and printer sharing.
- 🔐 Let Windows manage HomeGroup connections.
After making changes, be sure to save the settings. Restarting the network adapter is not required, but it may take a few seconds for the new rules to apply. firewallThe system is now ready to create an access point.
Creating a hotspot in Windows 10 and 11
In modern versions of the operating system, the process is as automated as possible. You don't need to create complex configuration files or use the command line. The "Mobile Hotspot" feature lets you turn your PC into a fully-fledged access point in just a few clicks.
Go to Settings -> Network & Internet -> Mobile Hotspot. Under Use, select your Wi-Fi adapter. Then, enter a network name and create a strong password. Encryption is recommended. WPA2-Personal, as it provides a sufficient level of protection for home use.
After enabling the "Allow the connection to be shared with my internet connection..." switch on the second computer, find the newly created network in the list of available Wi-Fi connections. Enter the password and wait until the status changes to "Connected." A direct connection is now established between the devices.
| Parameter | Recommended value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Frequency range | 5 GHz (if available) | Provides higher data transfer speeds |
| Security type | WPA2-Personal | Encryption standard for traffic protection |
| Maximum devices | 8 | Windows client limit |
| Power saving mode | Disabled | Prevents connection loss during idle time |
It's worth noting that when actively distributing Wi-Fi, the host's internet speed may decrease, as the adapter's resources are divided between receiving and transmitting data. If you need maximum local network performance without internet access, you can disable the external internet connection.
☑️ Checking hotspot settings
Organizing file sharing
After successfully connecting computers to a single local network, you need to configure access rights to specific resources. You can't simply copy a file from one drive to another—you need to explicitly tell the system which folders are common.
Select the folder you want to share. Right-click it, select "Properties," and go to the "Sharing" tab. Click "Advanced" and check "Share this folder." You can also configure permission levels for different users here.
In the Permissions window, you can specify what actions connected users can perform: read only, read and write, or full access. For a workgroup, "Edit" and "Read" permissions are usually sufficient. This will allow colleagues to edit documents but not delete system files.
⚠️ Warning: Sharing with write access allows other users to modify or delete files in this folder. Be careful with important data.
An alternative and easier way is to use a folder Public (Shared Documents). All files placed in this directory are automatically accessible to all users on the local network without the need for complex permissions settings. This is convenient for quickly sharing temporary files.
How to hide a shared folder?
To share a folder but not display it in Network Neighborhood, add a dollar sign ($) to the end of the folder name when creating it. For example, name the folder "docs$." It will only be accessible via the direct path.
Mapping a network drive and working with resources
For easy access to remote files, we recommend mapping the shared folder as a network drive. This will allow you to work with documents as if they were on your hard drive, assigning them a drive letter (e.g., Z:). This will eliminate the need to search for your computer in your network environment each time.
Open "This PC," right-click on an empty space, and select "Map network drive." Enter the path to the shared folder in the following format: \\ComputerName\Folder or \\IP address\FolderUsing an IP address is often more reliable if the network is having problems with name resolution. NetBIOS.
If the system prompts you for credentials, enter the username and password you use to log in to the host computer. It's important that the accounts on both computers have passwords (or disable password requirements in the sharing settings, which is less secure).
Once connected, you'll see the new drive in "My Computer." File copy speed will depend on the Wi-Fi signal quality and supported standards (802.11n, ac, ax). For large files, use confirmation copying to avoid errors if the connection is lost.
Diagnosis and solution of typical problems
Even with proper configuration, situations may arise where computers can't see each other or data transfer is extremely slow. First, check whether both devices are on the same subnet. The addresses should differ only in the last digit, for example, 192.168.1.5 and 192.168.1.6.
A common cause of problems is antivirus software or the built-in Windows firewall, which blocks incoming connections. Try temporarily disabling protection or adding an exception rule for the private network. Make sure the service SSDP Discovery launched.
If the transfer speed is low, check the channel load. In apartment buildings, the airwaves can be overloaded with signals from neighboring routers. Use Wi-Fi analysis utilities and, if necessary, change the channel in the adapter settings or switch to the 5 GHz band.
⚠️ Note: Windows settings interfaces and menu item names may vary slightly depending on the update version (21H2, 22H2, etc.). If you can't find what you're looking for, search for it in the system settings.
For in-depth diagnostics, use the command line. Command ping will help to check the availability of the node, and ipconfig will display current network settings. These tools are essential for any system administrator.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to connect computers via Wi-Fi if one of them is running Linux or macOS?
Yes, this is possible. The setup principles are similar: create an access point on one device and connect from another. However, sharing settings (Samba) in Linux and macOS differ from those in Windows and require separate configuration of access rights and users.
What is the maximum file transfer speed over such a network?
Speed depends on the Wi-Fi adapter standard. For 802.11n, the actual speed will be around 20-30 Mbps, for 802.11ac, up to 50-80 Mbps, and modern Wi-Fi 6 standards can provide over 100 Mbps under ideal conditions.
Is it safe to keep sharing enabled all the time?
If you're on a public network (like a cafe or airport), it's unsafe. Always use the "Public Network" profile in such places. At home, with a strong Wi-Fi password, the risks are minimal, but strong passwords for your accounts are a must.
Why can my computer see the network but not other computers on it?
The problem is most likely with the discovery service or firewall. Ensure that network discovery is enabled on both PCs and the "Private Network" profile is selected. Resetting the network in Windows Settings also helps.