Organizing local data exchange between devices remains a pressing need for many users, even in the era of cloud storage. When transferring gigabytes of video archives, heavy projects, or creating a home media server, the speed and stability of a local connection are unmatched. Windows 10 provides built-in tools to accomplish this task without installing third-party software, but the process requires precise adherence to the sequence of actions.
Connecting two computers via a Wi-Fi router creates a fully-fledged local area network (LAN), where each node has access to shared resources. This solution is ideal for offices without wired infrastructure or for apartments where cabling is impossible. The main requirement is that both devices must be connected to the same wireless access point.
In this guide, we'll cover not only the basic setup but also the nuances of security protocols that often block connections by default. Understanding the principles of operation network profiles will help you avoid most of the mistakes that beginners encounter when first trying to "make friends" with their PCs.
Checking network parameters and preparing equipment
Before moving on to complex settings, you need to make sure the physical connection is set up correctly. Both computers must be within range of a strong signal, and their network cards must be working correctly. Parameters (Win+I keys) and go to the section Network and Internet.
A critical point is the network profile type. Windows 10 may assign new connections to the "Public Network" profile by default, which hides your computer from detection by other devices for security reasons. You need to change this setting to "Private Network."
⚠️ Important: Only change your network type if you're in a trusted environment (home or office). In public places (cafes, airports), keep the "Public" profile to prevent attackers from scanning your open ports.
To change your profile, follow the path Network and Internet → Status → Connection PropertiesHere, under the heading “Network Profile,” select the option PrivateAfter this, the system will allow data exchange between devices within this Wi-Fi network.
- 📶 Make sure both PCs are connected to the same SSID (Wi-Fi network name).
- 🔒 Make sure network discovery is enabled on both devices.
- 💻 Make sure your wireless adapter drivers are updated to the latest version.
Setting up shared access to files and folders
After correctly configuring the network profile, you need to enable sharing mechanisms in the operating system. Without this, Windows will ignore incoming connection requests, even if you're on the same subnet. Open Control Panel and select a section Network and Internet, then Network and Sharing Center.
Find the link in the menu on the left Change advanced sharing optionsA window will open with three profiles: private, guest, and all networks. We're interested in the first option. In the "Private (current profile)" section, you need to activate the toggle. Enable network discovery.
You should also check the box next to the item Enable file and printer sharingThis permission will give the green light for data transfer. Be sure to click the "Save Changes" button at the bottom of the page, otherwise the settings will not take effect.
At the bottom of the window, in the “All networks” section, it is recommended to enable the item Enable sharing so that network users can read and write files in shared foldersThis will make collaboration easier if you plan to exchange documents frequently.
Creating a shared folder for data exchange
Now that the infrastructure is ready, you need to create a location where the files will be stored for transfer. You can share any existing folder or create a new one specifically for this purpose. Create a directory, for example, on drive D and name it Exchange.
Right click on the folder and select Properties. Go to the tab Access and press the button Advanced settingsIn the window that opens, check the box. Share this folder.
To manage user rights, click the button PermissionsHere you can fine-tune who can do what with files. By default, the "Everyone" group has read-only permissions. If you want to be able to delete or modify files from another computer, select the group and check the box. Full access.
- 📁 Create a descriptive name for the folder to make it easy to find in your network environment.
- 🔐 For increased security, remove the "Everyone" group and add a specific user.
- ✍️ Use "Modify" permissions instead of "Full Control" if you don't need to delete files.
There is also a faster but less flexible way via the tab General access in the folder properties. Click Share, select a user from the list, and add them. However, the advanced settings method provides more granular control over NTFS access rights.
Search for a computer on the network and connect to resources
On the second computer that will be connecting to the shared folder, you need to open the Network Places. The fastest way is to press a key combination. Win + R and enter the command IP address of the first PC or \\Name-of-the-first-PC.
Using the IP address is a more reliable method, as computer names on local networks sometimes fail to resolve due to the specifics of the SMB protocol. To find the IP address of the first computer, open a command prompt (cmd) and enter the command ipconfigFind the IPv4 address line.
IPv4 address.........: 192.168.1.54Enter the received address in the address bar of the explorer, for example: \\192.168.1.54If all settings are correct, you'll see an open folder. The system may prompt you for credentials the first time you connect.
| Parameter | Value on PC 1 (Server) | Value on PC 2 (Client) |
|---|---|---|
| Network type | Private | Private |
| Network discovery | Included | Included |
| IP address (example) | 192.168.1.54 | 192.168.1.102 |
| SMB port | 445 (open) | 445 (open) |
If you receive an access error when entering the address, try entering the login and password of the user account on the first computer. This is the standard authorization procedure for a Windows domain or workgroup.
Solving common connection problems
The most common reason a computer is unavailable on the network is connections blocked by Windows Firewall or antivirus software. If you're sure the IP addresses are correct but there's no connection, check your firewall rules.
Open Control Panel → Windows Defender Firewall → Allow an app or feature through FirewallFind it in the list File and Printer Sharing and make sure the boxes for the private network are checked.
⚠️ Note: Windows settings interfaces may vary slightly depending on the build version (21H2, 22H2, etc.). If you can't find the item, search for the keyword in system settings.
Another common problem is a disabled service. Publishing discovery resources. Click Win + R, enter services.msc and find the service in the list Function Discovery Resource PublicationSet the startup type to Automatic and start the service.
What should you do if it asks for a password but you don't know it?
If you use a Microsoft account on the first PC, the login will be your email address and the password will be your account password. If you use a local account, the login name and password will be your login password. You can create a new local user specifically for the network without a password, but this is less secure.
It's also worth checking the operation of the SMB 1.0 protocol, although Microsoft recommends disabling it for security reasons. On some older networks, enabling it is necessary. This is done via Control Panel → Programs and Features → Turn Windows features on or off.
Create a shortcut for quick access
To avoid having to enter the IP address or navigate your network, it's convenient to create a permanent shortcut to the shared folder on the desktop of the second computer. To do this, connect to the folder over the network as described above.
Right-click on the open network folder and select Add to network places (or simply drag it to the desktop while holding Alt). The system will create a shortcut that will act as a local folder.
For advanced users, the network drive mapping feature is available. In File Explorer, click This PC → Computer → Map network driveSelect a free drive letter (e.g., Z:) and specify the path to the folder. Data will now be exchanged through the familiar disk interface.
- 🚀 Mapping a network drive speeds up file management in programs.
- 💾 You can check the "Restore at login" box to automatically connect.
- 🔗 Shortcuts allow you to quickly access resources without re-authorization.
☑️ Checking readiness for transfer
Why is my computer not visible on the network even though Wi-Fi is working?
Most often, the problem lies with the "Public" network profile. Windows blocks discovery on such networks. Also, check the "Discovery Resource Publishing" service and ensure both devices are in the same workgroup (usually WORKGROUP).
Is it possible to connect computers without a router?
Yes, you can create a direct computer-to-computer (Ad-Hoc) connection or use the Mobile Hotspot feature in Windows 10 to turn one laptop into a hotspot that the other can connect to.
What is the maximum transfer speed for Wi-Fi?
Speed depends on the Wi-Fi standard (n, ac, ax) and band (2.4 or 5 GHz). In the 5 GHz band, AC can achieve real-world speeds of 300-500 Mbps, which is comparable to a fast wired connection.