Connecting two laptops to a single local network via Wi-Fi is an effective way to quickly transfer large amounts of data, launch an online game, or remotely control one device from another without using wires.
Modern operating systems such as Windows 10 And Windows 11, have built-in tools for creating such connections, but users often encounter security restrictions or difficulties in setting up device visibility.
In this article, we'll explore several proven methods for establishing connections between computers, focusing on creating a homegroup, setting up shared access, and using specialized software for direct file transfer.
Whether you need to transfer a 50GB photo archive or just play some good old fashioned LAN game With a friend, a proper understanding of how a local network works will save you hours of time.
Selecting a connection method and preparing equipment
Before you begin configuring the software, you need to decide on the architecture of your future network, as this will determine the data transfer speed and connection stability.
There are two main ways to set up a connection: through an existing router or by creating a direct computer-to-computer connection (Ad-Hoc mode), where one of the devices distributes a Wi-Fi signal.
If both laptops are connected to the same router, the task is significantly simplified, since the router takes on the function of distributing IP addresses and traffic.
If you don't have a router, you'll need to turn one of your laptops into an access point, which requires properly configuring network settings to avoid address conflicts.
- 📶 Via router: Both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network, the router manages the traffic.
- 💻 Direct connection (Ad-Hoc): One laptop distributes Wi-Fi, the second one connects to it directly.
- 🔗 Mobile hotspot: using a smartphone as an intermediate bridge (less effective for large files).
Make sure that Wi-Fi adapters are enabled on both devices and that the drivers are working correctly, as outdated software may not support the necessary security protocols. WPA2/WPA3.
⚠️ Warning: When using public Wi-Fi networks (cafes, airports), creating a local network for file sharing may be blocked by the provider's security settings or client isolation at the hardware level.
Setting up a network via a router (standard method)
This is the most common and stable option, assuming that both laptops are already connected to the same wireless network.
The first step is to check that both devices are on the same subnet, meaning the first three digits of their IP addresses match.
To check, open the command prompt by typing cmd in the search menu and enter the command ipconfigto find out the current address of your device.
Next, you need to make sure that the network profile is set to "Private network", since in "Public" mode, Windows blocks the discovery of other devices for security purposes.
Go to Settings → Network and Internet → Wi-Fi and select the properties of your connection, where in the "Network Profile" section, select the option Private.
Repeat this procedure on the second laptop to ensure that both devices can see each other and allow data exchange.
Once you change your network profile, the system will automatically apply firewall rules to allow device discovery and file sharing.
Creating a direct Wi-Fi network (Ad-Hoc mode)
If you don't have a router handy, you can set up a network by turning one laptop into an access point that the second one can connect to.
In modern versions of Windows, this feature is implemented through Mobile Hotspot, which significantly simplifies the process compared to legacy methods.
On the first laptop, go to Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile Hotspot and turn the switch to the "On" position.
Here you will also see the network name and password, which you will need to enter on the second device when searching for available Wi-Fi networks.
☑️ Preparing to create an access point
It's important to note that when using a built-in hotspot, the second laptop can access the internet through the first one as long as the primary device has an active wired or mobile connection.
For purely local file sharing, the Internet is not required; the main thing is a successful connection between the adapters.
The transmission speed in this mode may be lower than through a router, since the Wi-Fi module operates in half-duplex mode, receiving and transmitting data in turns.
| Parameter | Via a router | Direct connection (Hot-spot) |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | High (full duplex) | Medium (half duplex) |
| Stability | High | Depends on the adapter |
| Complexity | Low | Average |
| Internet access | Both have it | Host only (usually) |
Setting up shared access to files and folders
After a successful connection at the network level, you need to configure access rights so that the files can be seen by another user.
In Windows, this is done through the Network and Sharing Center, where you can enable computer discovery and file sharing.
Select the folder you want to share, right-click, select Properties → Access → Advanced settings and check the box "Open public access".
Here you can also configure permission levels, for example, allow only reading or give full rights to modify and delete files.
⚠️ Warning: Sharing system folders or the C: drive can potentially expose your data to risk if your network is not protected with a strong password.
To access the shared folder from another laptop, open File Explorer, go to the Network section and find the name of the first computer.
If the system asks for credentials, enter the login and password of the user you logged in with on the first computer.
An alternative way is to use the direct path through the address bar of the explorer by entering the IP address of the computer in the format \\192.168.1.XX.
What should I do if it asks for a password but it doesn't work?
Make sure both computers have the same usernames and passwords, or disable password protection in the sharing settings (not recommended for public networks).
Using specialized software for transmission
If Windows' built-in tools seem too cumbersome or unstable, you can use third-party utilities that create their own tunnel over Wi-Fi.
Programs like Shareit, Feem or Snapdrop (works through the browser) allow you to transfer files using drag-and-drop without complex access rights settings.
Such applications often use technology UDP to speed up transmission and automatically bypass firewall restrictions.
However, it is worth considering that installing unknown software on both computers may be excessive for a one-time operation.
For professional file management, such as video editors, solutions like Resilio Sync, which synchronize folders in real time.
The main advantage of third-party software is its cross-platform nature: you can easily connect Windows, macOS, Linux, and even Android into a single network.
Organizing local play and remote control
Gamers often connect laptops via Wi-Fi to organize LAN parties using the built-in multiplayer features of games.
In this case, the critical parameter becomes Ping (latency), which can be unstable in Wi-Fi networks.
To minimize lag, it is recommended to disable background downloads and updates on both laptops while playing.
Also, many games require the network type to be set to "Private" otherwise they simply won't see the server created by a friend.
For remote control (for example, to help relatives), you can use the built-in Remote Desktop tool or third-party analogs like TeamViewer.
When connecting via Wi-Fi, the image may lag slightly, so for a more comfortable experience, it's best to lower the screen resolution in the remote session settings.
Diagnosis and solution of typical problems
The most common problem is that computers do not see each other in the network environment, although the Wi-Fi connection is active.
In 90% of cases, this is resolved by checking the Network Discovery service and re-selecting the network profile as Private.
It is also worth checking if the service is enabled Function Discovery Resource Publication in the services window (services.msc), since it is responsible for displaying the PC on the network.
If file transfers are interrupted in the middle, try temporarily disabling your antivirus software or adding an exception for the local subnet.
Slow copying speed may be caused by using an old Wi-Fi standard. 802.11n instead of a faster one 802.11ac or ax.
⚠️ Note: Windows Settings interfaces may be updated. If you can't find the menu item, search for it in Settings or enter the command directly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to connect laptops via Wi-Fi without a router?
Yes, it's possible. One laptop needs to create a mobile hotspot, and the other one needs to connect to it like a regular Wi-Fi network. This doesn't require internet access; all that's required is a working network card.
Why doesn't the second laptop see the shared folder?
The issue is most likely with your network profile. Make sure the network is marked as "Private" on both devices. Also, check that "File and Printer Sharing" is enabled in the advanced sharing settings.
What is the maximum Wi-Fi transfer speed between laptops?
Speed depends on the Wi-Fi standard. For 802.11n, it's around 30-40 Mbps in real-world conditions, for 802.11ac, it's up to 100-150 Mbps, and the new Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standard can deliver even higher speeds, approaching gigabit speeds.
Is it safe to open public access to a cafe?
No, it's dangerous to do this in public places. Attackers on the same network may try to access your files. Use only password-protected archives or specialized encryption software (such as Resilio Sync with a key).
Do I need the same Windows password on both laptops?
This isn't required, but it makes life easier. If the passwords are different, the system will prompt for the remote computer user's credentials (login and password) upon connection. You can also disable the password prompt in the sharing settings, but this will reduce security.