How to connect two computers via Wi-Fi: all the methods with step-by-step instructions

Connecting two computers wirelessly opens up opportunities for quickly sharing files, collaborating on projects, or even hosting multiplayer games. However, many users encounter difficulties: Windows doesn't detect the second PC, data transfer speeds leave much to be desired, or the connection keeps dropping. In this article, we'll look into these issues. all current connection methods — from standard operating system functions to specialized software, and we'll also tell you how to avoid common mistakes.

It is important to understand that the methods differ not only in the complexity of the setup, but also in the final capabilities. For example, ad-hoc network A direct connection without a router is suitable for one-time file transfers, while a router connection allows you to create a full-fledged local network with access to shared folders and printers. We'll analyze each option in detail so you can choose the best approach for your needs.

If you use macOS or Linux, the connection principles are similar, but the setup methods will differ. This article focuses on Windows 10/11, as it's the most common OS for home PCs. For other systems, we'll provide brief recommendations in the relevant sections.

Method 1: Creating an ad-hoc network (direct connection without a router)

This is the simplest method and does not require any additional equipment. Ad-hoc network (from the Latin "for this purpose") allows two devices to connect directly, bypassing a router. However, it has limitations:

• 🔄 The data transfer speed is lower than when connected via a router (maximum ~11 Mbps in the 802.11b standard).
• 📶 The range is limited by the power of Wi-Fi adapters (usually up to 10–15 meters indoors).
• 🔒 Traffic encryption is not enabled by default; it must be configured manually.

To create such a network on Windows 10/11, follow these steps:

1. Open Control Panel → Network and Sharing Center.
2. Select Setting up a new connection or network → Setting up a wireless ad hoc network.
3. Set the network name (SSID), security type (WPA2-Personal (recommended) and password (minimum 8 characters).
4. Activate the option Save settings for this network and press Next.

On the second computer, connect to the created network as a regular access point. After that, check the visibility of devices in the section Net Windows Explorer. If the PCs are not showing up, make sure:

• 🔧 Enabled on both devices File and Printer Sharing (in the network profile settings).
• 🔄 Network profile set as Private network, and not Public.
• 🔒 Windows Firewall is not blocking the connection (temporarily disable it to check).

Wi-Fi adapter is enabled on both PCs|

Same security standard (WPA2)|

The password was entered without errors|

VPN and proxy are disabled|

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⚠️ Attention: Some laptops (especially those with adapters) Intel AX200/AX210) may not support ad-hoc mode in newer versions of Windows. In this case, use alternative methods or update the adapter driver to the latest version.

Method 2: Using a router (recommended method)

Connecting via a router is the most reliable and functional option. It allows you to:

• 📡 Connect more than two devices simultaneously.
• 🔌 Use a wired connection (Ethernet) for one of the PCs if high speed is required.
• 🔒 Automatically encrypt traffic through WPA2/WPA3.
• 🖨️ Share files and printers without additional settings.

Instructions for most modern routers (TP-Link, ASUS, Keenetic and others):

1. Connect both computers to the same Wi-Fi network (or one via cable and the other via wireless).
2. Open your router settings by going to this address 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1 (check the device instructions).
3. In the section Local Area Network (LAN) make sure it's turned on DHCP server (it automatically assigns IP addresses to devices).
4. In the settings Wireless mode (Wi-Fi) check that the network is working in mode 11n/ac/ax (for maximum speed).

After connecting to the router, set up sharing on both PCs:

1. IN Control Panel → Folder Options turn on Use the Sharing Wizard.
2. Right-click on the folder you want to open and select Properties → Access → Share.
3. In the section Security add a user All (Everyone) with read/write rights.

TP-Link|

ASUS|

Keenetic|

D-Link|

Other|

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⚠️ Attention: If after connecting to the router, computers cannot see each other on the network, check your firewall settings. Windows Defender or a third-party antivirus (for example, Kaspersky, ESET). Often they block network discovery by default.

3. Method: Using Hamachi (virtual network)

LogMeIn Hamachi — a popular solution for creating virtual private networks (VPNs) between computers. This method is convenient if:

• 🌍 The PCs are on different networks (for example, one at home, the other in the office).
• 🔒 A secure channel for data transmission is required.
• 🎮 I need to organize a network game without ports and forwarding.

Setup instructions:

1. Download and install Hamachi With official website on both computers.
2. Run the program and click Network → Create a new network.
3. Come up with a network name (ID) and password, then connect the second PC by entering these details.
4. Wait until both devices receive virtual IP addresses (eg. 5.XXX.XXX.XXX).

To share files, use standard Windows tools (folder sharing) or connect via IP via \\IP address\folder_name. Hamachi encrypts all traffic, but the speed depends on your internet connection—on a slow connection, file transfers can take a long time.

How to speed up file transfers via Hamachi?

1. Disable other VPN connections on your PC.

2. In Hamachi settings, select the "Optimize for speed" option (if available).

3. Use archivers (for example, 7-Zip) to compress data before transmission.

4. If possible, connect to the network via Ethernet instead of Wi-Fi.

4. Method: Connecting via a mobile hotspot (for Windows 10/11)

If you don't have a router, but you have a smartphone or tablet that supports it Wi-Fi Direct, you can use it as an intermediary. This method is suitable for one-time file transfers or temporary internet access.

How to set up:

1. On smartphone (Android or iOS) turn on the mode Access point (Hotspot).
2. Connect both computers to this network.
3. On one of the PCs, enable folder sharing (as described in the router method).
4. On the second PC, open File Explorer and enter in the address bar IP address of the first PC (You can find out the IP using the command ipconfig V CMD).

Limitations of the method:

• 📱 Quickly drains your smartphone battery.
• 📶 The speed is limited by the capabilities of the mobile device (usually up to 50–100 Mbps).
• 🔄 If the connection is interrupted, you will have to reconnect.

5. Method: Direct connection via Wi-Fi Direct (for Windows 8.1/10/11)

Wi-Fi Direct — a technology that allows devices to connect directly without intermediaries. It is supported by most modern laptops and PCs with adapters. Intel, Broadcom or Qualcomm.

How to activate:

1. On the first computer, open Settings → Network and Internet → Wi-Fi.
2. Select Wi-Fi Direct (on some devices this option is hidden - use the search in the settings).
3. On the second PC, in the same section, find the name of the first computer and connect to it.
4. Confirm the connection on both devices (you may be asked to enter a PIN).

Once connected, you will be able to:

• 📁 Share files via File Explorer (like over a local network).
• 🎮 Play online games with minimal lag.
• 🖱️ Use one device as a remote desktop for another (via RDP or TeamViewer).

⚠️ Attention: On some laptops Lenovo And HP function Wi-Fi Direct is disabled by default in the BIOS. To enable it, restart your PC, enter the BIOS (press F2/Del at boot) and enable the option Wi-Fi Direct Support or Wireless Display.

6. Problem Solving: Why Computers Can't See Each Other

If the connection is established but the devices are not visible on the network, check the following:

If the problem persists, run network diagnostics:

1. Click Win + R, enter cmd and run the command:

   ping IP address of the second PC

   If the packets do not pass (The specified node is unavailable), check your firewall settings.

2. Update your Wi-Fi adapter drivers via device Manager or from the manufacturer's website (Intel, Realtek and others).
3. Temporarily disable your antivirus and check the connection again.

7. Comparison of methods: which one to choose?

The choice of method depends on your needs and equipment. Below is a comparison table:

For most users, the optimal solution would be connection via a router — it combines high speed, reliability, and minimal configuration. If you don't have a router and need a one-time file transfer, use Wi-Fi Direct or ad-hoc. Suitable for remote access (for example, from another country) Hamachi.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to connect a Windows computer and a Mac via Wi-Fi?

Yes, but for this to work both devices must be connected to the same network (via a router or ad-hoc). macOS turn on sharing in System Preferences → Sharing and select File sharingAdd a user in the folder settings. Everyone with read/write permissions. From a Windows computer, connect to smb://IP-address-Mac.

How to transfer files between computers as quickly as possible?

For maximum speed:

1. Use a router with support Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and connect at least one PC via cable (Ethernet).
2. In the router settings, select the channel width 80 MHz or 160 MHz (if supported).
3. Disconnect other devices connected to the network during the transfer.
4. Use archivers (WinRAR, 7-Zip) to compress data before sending.

Why does the speed drop to zero when transferring files?

This is a typical problem when:

• Use ad-hoc network (it is unstable).
• Interference from other Wi-Fi networks (check the channel in the router settings).
• Active antivirus operation (temporarily disable it).
• Overheating of the Wi-Fi adapter (especially in laptops).

Solution: Restart your router, change the Wi-Fi channel to 1, 6 or 11 (for 2.4 GHz), or use a wired connection.

Is it possible to play over a local network via Wi-Fi?

Yes, but with some reservations:

• For modern games (CS:GO, Dota 2, GTA V) it is better to use a router with support Wi-Fi 5/6 and connect at least one PC via cable.
• For old games (Counter-Strike 1.6, Warcraft III) that's enough ad-hoc networks, but lags are possible.
• In the game settings, select to create a server on a local IP address (for example, 192.168.1.XX).

For minimal delays use Wi-Fi Direct or Hamachi (if the game supports VPN connections).

How to protect transmitted data when connected via Wi-Fi?

Minimum safety measures:

• Always use encryption WPA2-PSK or WPA3-PSK (never WEP or open network).
• For ad-hoc Set a complex password for your network (at least 12 characters with numbers and special characters).
• Turn off folder sharing after file transfer is complete.
• For sensitive data, use password-protected archiving (7-Zip with encryption AES-256).

If you are transmitting data over a public network (for example, in a cafe), use Hamachi or another VPN service to encrypt traffic.