Wi-Fi Sharing Between Windows Computers: A Complete A-Z Guide

Sharing files between computers on the same Wi-Fi network is a common problem in both homes and small offices. Instead of copying data to a flash drive or sending it via instant messaging, you can set up network folder with shared access. This is convenient for collaborating on documents, backing up, or simply quickly sharing photos and videos.

However, many users encounter problems: the folder won't open, access is denied, or the computers simply don't "see" each other. The reasons lie in the settings. Windows, network settings, or antivirus programs. In this article, we'll look at All possible ways to set up a network folder via Wi-Fi, including solutions to common errors and security tips.

Preparing for setup: What to check before creating a network folder

Before you begin setup, make sure both computers are connected to one Wi-Fi networkThis is a key requirement: if the devices are on different networks (for example, one via a router and the other via a mobile hotspot), shared access will not work.

Also check:

• 🔹 Computer names - they must be different (you can see in Settings → System → About).
• 🔹 Working group — by default it is WORKGROUP (change in System Properties → Advanced).
• 🔹 Availability of antivirus - some programs (for example, Kaspersky or Avast) block network access.

If you use Windows 11, the interface may be slightly different, but the setup principles remain the same. In Windows 10 And Windows 11 The algorithm is almost identical, except for the location of some menu items.

⚠️ Attention: If your router uses guest network (For example, Wi-Fi_Guest), computers in it won't be able to communicate with each other. Connect to the main network.

Method 1: Set up via HomeGroup (for Windows 10)

Home group - a convenient tool for quickly creating a shared folder, but it is only available in Windows 10 (V Windows 11 (It was removed). If you have a "ten", follow the instructions:

1. Open Control Panel → HomeGroup.
2. Click Create a homegroup and select folders to share (eg. Documents or Images).
3. Write down the generated password - you will need it to connect other computers.
4. On the second PC, open the same Home group and enter the password.

After this, the folders will become available in Network → [Computer Name]The downside of this method is limited flexibility (you can't select a custom folder) and lack of support in newer versions of Windows.

- Both computers are connected to the same Wi-Fi network

- The "Discovery Provider Host" service is enabled on both PCs (check in services.msc)

- Firewall does not block network discovery

- Non-guest accounts-->

Method 2: Manually Setting Up Sharing (Universal Method)

This is the most reliable method that works in all versions. WindowsIt allows you to select any folder and set access rights.

Steps on the computer where the folder is located (server):

1. Right-click on the folder → Properties → Access.
2. Click Share and select a user All (or a specific user if selectivity is required).
3. Set the access level: Reading (view only) or Reading and writing (editing).
4. Go to the tab Security → Change and add a user All with the necessary rights.

On the second computer (client):

1. Open Conductor and enter in the address bar \\[Server IP address] (For example, \\192.168.1.100).
2. If prompted for login/password, enter the account details from the server (or guest account details, if allowed).

Solving common errors when setting up a network folder

Even after proper setup, problems may still arise. Here are the most common ones and how to fix them:

• 🔴 Error 0x80070035: "The network path was not found." - check if it's enabled Network discovery on both PCs (Settings → Network & Internet → Sharing options).
• 🔴 Request login/password upon access — disable password protection (see tip above) or add a user in the folder's security settings.
• 🔴 The folder opens, but the files cannot be edited. - check the rights on the tab Security (should be Full access or Change).
• 🔴 Computers can't see each other. - make sure they are on the same subnet (eg. 192.168.1.x). You can check the IP with the command ipconfig V CMD.

If the problem persists, try reboot the router - sometimes failures in its operation block local interaction between devices.

Network Folder Security: How to Protect Your Data from Unauthorized Access

By sharing a folder, you risk allowing access not only to trusted users but also to malicious users (if they're connected to your Wi-Fi network). To minimize these risks:

• 🔒 Disable guest access — allow connections only to authorized users.
• 🔒 Use complex passwords for Windows accounts (at least 8 characters with numbers and special characters).
• 🔒 Configure firewall rules - allow access only for the local subnet (for example, 192.168.1.0/24).
• 🔒 Encrypt sensitive data - even inside a shared folder you can create an encrypted archive (.zip with a password).

If you work in an office or public place, it is better to use VPN to create a secure channel between computers. For example, Hamachi or ZeroTier allow you to organize a virtual network over the Internet.

⚠️ Note: If your router supports isolation of clients (for example, option AP Isolation), file sharing between devices will be blocked. Disable it in your router settings.

Alternative ways to share files over Wi-Fi

If a network folder is not suitable (for example, due to network restrictions), consider alternatives:

• 📁 Cloud services — Google Drive, Yandex Disk or Dropbox (convenient, but depends on the internet speed).
• 📡 Local FTP server - programs like FileZilla Server allow you to organize access via the FTP protocol.
• 🔄 Direct Wi-Fi transmission — utilities like LocalSend or Snapdrop work without a router (via ad-hoc net).
• 🔗 SSH tunnel - for experienced users (requires configuration on Linux or via PuTTY in Windows).

Each method has its pros and cons. For example, cloud services are easy to use but limited by download speed, while FTP requires additional configuration, but works quickly in a local network.

Optimizing file transfer speed over Wi-Fi

If files are copying too slowly, the issue may be with your network or hardware settings. Here's how to speed up the process:

• 🚀 Use 5 GHz - This range is less crowded and provides higher speed (but shorter range).
• 🚀 Turn off power saving for Wi-Fi adapter in Device Manager.
• 🚀 Configure QoS on your router — prioritize traffic between local devices.
• 🚀 Update your drivers network card (especially if you use USB Wi-Fi adapter).

Also, check if the router itself is limiting the speed. For example, budget models with a single-core processor (MT7620, RT3050) may “slow down” when simultaneously transferring data between several devices.

FAQ: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

net session

net session \\[Computer Name] /delete