How to Connect Two PCs via Wi-Fi: Create a Wireless Local Area Network

Creating a local network between two computers is one of the basic tasks faced by every user who wants to exchange data without the use of external storage devices. A modern operating system Windows has built-in tools that allow you to set up such a connection in minutes using only your existing Wi-Fi router. You won't need to run cables or buy additional equipment, as long as both devices are within range of the wireless network.

The main goal of this procedure is to unite computers into a single environment where they “see” each other and can transfer files, documents, photos, and even run online games with minimal delays. network setup Provides access to printer and multimedia sharing features. It's important to understand that data security in this configuration depends on the correct access parameters and the selected network profile.

In this guide, we'll cover every step in detail: from checking hardware compatibility to fine-tuning your firewall. We'll also look at how to avoid common errors when computers are formally connected to the router but are unable to exchange data packets. Following the algorithm will allow you to create a stable connection that will work automatically every time you turn on your devices.

Checking requirements and preparing equipment

Before you begin software configuration, you need to ensure that your infrastructure is ready for operation. A fundamental requirement is a working Wi-Fi router, to which both computers are connected. It doesn't matter whether you're using laptops with built-in modules or desktop PCs with USB adapters; the main thing is a stable signal and no restrictions from your provider.

Both devices must be on the same subnet. This means that if one computer receives an address like 192.168.1.5, the other must have an address like 192.168.1.X, where X is any number from 2 to 254. If you're using a guest Wi-Fi network or isolated VLANs, the connection won't be established due to routing rules.

It's also worth checking the operating system versions. While Windows has a high degree of compatibility, the connection between Windows 10 And Windows 11 This may require enabling the SMB 1.0 protocol, which is disabled by default for security reasons. For older systems, such as Windows 7, the settings may differ, but the basic IP addressing principle remains the same.

• 📡 Both computers are connected to the same Wi-Fi network (same SSID).
• 💻 Operating systems support the TCP/IP protocol (relevant for any modern OS).
• 🔌 No software traffic blockers (antiviruses with a strict firewall).
• 🔋 Stable power supply (especially important for laptops so that they do not go into sleep mode during transmission).

Setting up a network profile and discovery

The first critical step is changing your network profile. By default, Windows treats new Wi-Fi connections as "Public," hiding your computer from other devices for security reasons. You need to change this status to "Private" or "Home" to allow discovery.

To do this, open the Start menu and go to Settings. The path may vary depending on your OS version, but the logic remains the same: you need to find your active Wi-Fi connection and change its properties. In Windows 10, this is done via Settings → Network & Internet → Wi-Fi → Manage known networks.

Select your network from the list and set the switch to "Private." This removes basic firewall restrictions for local traffic. The system will then allow other devices on this network to see your computer and offer resources for sharing.

Next, you need to activate the sharing features. Go to Control Panel → Network and Sharing Center → Change advanced sharing settingsHere you should enable network discovery and file and printer sharing for the current profile.

• 🔍 Enable Network Discovery.
• 📂 Enable file and printer sharing.
• 🔐 Allow Windows to manage HomeGroup connections (if used).
• 🚫 Disable password protection only if you completely trust everyone on the network (not recommended).

⚠️ Attention: If you're in a public place (cafe, coworking space), it's strongly recommended not to switch your profile to "Private." This will make your personal files visible to everyone using the Wi-Fi.

Assigning static IP addresses

Although the router's DHCP server usually assigns addresses correctly, for stable local network operation between two computers, it's best to set static IP addresses. This will prevent a situation where, after a router reboot, the address of one of the computers changes, interrupting the connection.

To configure, open the command prompt by typing cmd in the search menu, and enter the command ipconfigRecord the current "Gateway" and "Subnet Mask" values. This information is necessary for manually entering addresses to avoid equipment conflicts.

ipconfig /all

Now go to the properties of the network adapter. Click Win + R, enter ncpa.cpl and press Enter. Right-click on your Wi-Fi adapter, select Properties, then double-click on Internet Protocol version 4 (TCP/IPv4).

Select the "Use the following IP address" option. In the IP address field, enter, for example, 192.168.1.50 for the first PC and 192.168.1.51 for the second. The system will automatically fill in the subnet mask (usually 255.255.255.0), and enter your router's address in the gateway field.

What to do if addresses conflict?

If you see an IP conflict error message, it means the selected address is already taken by another device on the network. Try changing the last digit of the address (for example, to 192.168.1.200).

Sharing files and setting up shared folders

After a successful connection, the next step is to set up data exchange. The easiest way is to create a shared folder. Find the directory you want to share, right-click it, and select "Properties." The "Access" tab is the one you're looking for.

Click the "Advanced Setup" button and check "Share this folder." Under "Permissions," ensure that the "Everyone" group has read and write permissions (if you want to be able to write files from another PC).

To access files on a remote computer, open File Explorer and enter the IP address of the second computer in the address bar, for example: \\192.168.1.51If everything is configured correctly, you will see a list of shared folders and will be able to work with them as if they were local folders.

You can also map a network folder as a separate drive. In File Explorer, click "This PC," then select "Map network drive" from the menu. Specify the drive letter and path to the folder in the following format: \\IP Address\FolderNameThis will allow you to work with remote files as conveniently as possible.

• 📁 Create a folder and configure the "Access" tab.
• 🔑 Assigning rights to the "Everyone" group or specific users.
• 💾 Map a network drive for ease of use.
• 🔄 Checking file synchronization between two machines.

Troubleshooting common connection errors

Users often encounter a situation where the ping works, but folders aren't displayed or access is denied. The most common cause is that the Windows services responsible for discovery are stopped. This service needs to be checked. Function Discovery Resource Publication.

Click Win + R, enter services.msc and find the specified service in the list. Set the startup type to "Automatic" and click "Start." Do the same for the "Function Discovery Resource Publishing" service. Without them, your computer won't be visible in the network neighborhood.

⚠️ Attention: Antivirus software (Kaspersky, ESET, Avast) often has its own firewall, which can block local networks even with Windows settings. Check the "Network" or "Local Area Network" settings in your antivirus interface and add the current connection to the trusted list.

Another problem is time synchronization. If the system time on computers differs significantly, the Kerberos protocol can block connections on domain or corporate networks, and sometimes even on home networks. Make sure the time is consistent to within a few minutes.

If all else fails, try temporarily disabling Windows Firewall on both computers for diagnostic purposes. If the connection reappears after this, you need to create an exception rule for the "Private" network type in the firewall settings, rather than keeping it disabled permanently.

Alternative methods of data transfer

If the standard network environment is unstable or the setup seems too complex, there are alternative ways to connect two PCs. One of them is to create a virtual network using third-party software, such as Hamachi or Radmin VPNThese programs create a secure tunnel that emulates a local connection over the Internet.

You can also use the built-in Nearby Sharing feature in Windows 10 and 11. It allows you to transfer files via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Direct without the need for complex folder setup. To do this, enable the feature in the system settings and select "Nearby Sharing."

For professional work with a remote desktop, the protocol is perfect RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol). It allows not only file transfer but also full control of a second computer. You can enable Remote Desktop in the "System" section of the computer's properties.

How to find out the IP address of another computer?

Ask the owner of the second PC to open a command prompt (cmd) and enter the command ipconfigThe required address will be listed in the "IPv4 Address" line. You can also view the address in the Wi-Fi connection status: "Properties" → "Scroll down to IPv4."

Why can't computers see each other after a Windows update?

Major Windows updates often reset the network profile to "Public" and disable network discovery. The update may also have changed your firewall rules. You should recheck your sharing settings and the status of discovery services.

Is it possible to connect a PC via Wi-Fi without a router?

Yes, this is possible through the Mobile Hotspot feature (distributing Wi-Fi from one PC) or by creating a computer-to-computer (Ad-hoc) connection, although in modern versions of Windows, Ad-hoc support is hidden and requires complex manipulations via the command line.

Is it safe to share the C: drive?

Absolutely not. Grant access only to specific folders that are essential for your work. Full access to the system drive creates a huge vulnerability: any virus on the network could infect both computers, and the attacker would gain access to all your data.