Creating a local network between devices is a basic, yet often challenging, task for PC users. In the age of cloud storage and instant messaging, direct data exchange over the air seems archaic, but when you need to transfer gigabytes of video or work with large databases, the speed local connection Unmatched. Connecting two or more computers via a Wi-Fi router allows you to set up a full-fledged digital office or home media center without unnecessary wires.
The setup process varies by operating system, but the basic principles remain the same: devices must be on the same subnet, have valid IP addresses, and have appropriate firewall permissions. Modern routers automatically assign addresses via DHCP, making the process much easier, but manual static IP configuration is sometimes necessary for stable operation. printers or NAS storageIn this article, we'll explore all the nuances of creating a stable communication channel.
Before you begin any complex steps, make sure all your devices are connected to the same wireless router. This is a fundamental requirement, without which further steps are pointless. If one laptop is connected via cable and the other via Wi-Fi, that's fine; the main thing is that they "see" each other within the same ISP network or home router.
⚠️ Attention: If you are on a corporate network or public Wi-Fi (cafe, airport), the creation of local connections may be blocked by the administrator or technical security measures.
Checking the physical connection and network status
The first step should always be troubleshooting the physical layer. Computers may be connected to the router but on different frequency bands or guest networks, isolating them from each other. Go to the network settings and ensure the network type is set to Private (Private), not "Public." In Windows, the "Public" profile hides your PC from detection by other devices for security purposes.
You can use the command line to check the current status. Click Win + R, enter cmd and press Enter. In the black window, enter the command ipconfigFind the "IPv4 Address" line. All computers you want to connect must have the same first three numbers (e.g., 192.168.1.X), where X is a unique number for each device.
If the addresses begin with 169.254.XX, this means the device was unable to obtain an IP address from the router automatically. In this case, the connection will not be established. You will need to either reboot the router or manually enter a static address in the TCP/IP protocol properties. It's also worth checking that the Wi-Fi module is enabled on laptops, as it may be disabled in power-saving mode.
Setting up sharing in Windows
After confirming the physical connection, you need to configure the operating system software. Windows blocks incoming connections by default for security reasons. You need to enable network discovery and file sharing. Open Control Panel → Network and Internet → Network and Sharing Center.
In the left menu, select "Change advanced sharing settings." Here you'll see the "Private" and "Guest or public" profiles. We're interested in the former. Enable the option. Enable network discovery and check "Turn on automatic configuration of connecting network devices." Below, enable "Turn on file and printer sharing."
- 🔌 Make sure "Turn off password-protected sharing" is enabled under "All Networks" if you want to simplify access within your trusted home network.
- 📁 To access specific folders, right-click on them, select "Properties" → "Sharing" tab → "Sharing" button.
- 🛡️ Check that Windows Firewall is not blocking incoming connections for the "Private" network type.
These steps will allow the computers to "see" each other in File Explorer. However, sometimes the system will require a restart of the discovery service. Open Services (services.msc), find "Discovery Features" and make sure it's running. If the service is stopped, start it and set the startup type to "Automatic."
Creating static IP addresses for stability
While a router's DHCP server usually handles address distribution well, these addresses may change after a hardware reboot. For consistent network resources, such as shared folders or network printers, it's best to assign addresses manually. This will prevent a situation where a link that worked yesterday stops opening today.
To configure, return to the window where you entered ipconfig, or go to Network and Internet Settings → Wi-Fi → Configure adapter settingsRight-click your wireless connection and select "Properties." Find "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)" in the list, select it, and click "Properties."
IP address: 192.168.1.50 (example)Subnet mask: 255.255.255.0
Default gateway: 192.168.1.1 (router address)
DNS: 8.8.8.8 or router address
It's important to select an address that's outside the router's automatic address range to avoid conflicts. Typically, the DHCP pool starts at address 100 (e.g., 192.168.1.100), so set static addresses in the range 2-99. This ensures that the router doesn't assign this address to another device.
Matching credentials and passwords
The most common issue users encounter is being prompted for a username and password when attempting to log in to a remote computer. Even if you've disabled password protection, Windows may still require authorization. The key rule: the user accounts on both computers must match. If the user is on PC 1 Admin with a password 12345, then an identical account with the same password must be created on PC-2.
If creating duplicate users is inconvenient, you can use the Credential Manager. When prompted for a password, check "Remember credentials." If access is not possible, open Control Panel → Credential Manager → Windows CredentialsAdd a new resource address by entering the IP address of the target computer, its login, and password.
⚠️ Warning: Using blank passwords on a local network is often blocked by Windows security policies. Make sure the account you're logging in to has at least a simple password.
Guest access is also possible, but in modern versions of Windows 10 and 11, it is severely limited or disabled by default due to vulnerabilities in the SMBv1 protocol. It's safer and more appropriate to create a dedicated user with limited rights just for accessing shared folders than to grant access to everyone.
Using HomeGroup and Alternative Methods
Function HomeGroup The HomeGroup feature, popular in Windows 7, has been deprecated in newer versions of the operating system. Microsoft abandoned it in favor of simpler sharing methods. However, some builds or upgrades from older systems may retain traces of this feature, which can sometimes interfere with functionality. It's recommended to completely remove old HomeGroup profiles via the registry or command line if you're upgrading to the new system.
For those who find the standard Windows tools too cumbersome, there are third-party utilities. Programs like Hamachi or ZeroTier They create virtual local area networks (VLANs) over the internet, allowing computers in different cities to be connected as if they were right next to each other. This is an excellent option for remote work or accessing a home PC from the office.
Why isn't HomeGroup working in Windows 10/11?
This feature was officially removed by Microsoft starting with version 1803. Standard folder sharing and OneDrive are now used in its place. Old HomeGroup shortcuts can cause errors and should be removed.
Another modern method is to use Nearby Sharing in Windows 10 and 11. It works similarly to Apple's AirDrop, using Bluetooth for discovery and Wi-Fi Direct for transfer. This is convenient for quickly transferring files, but isn't suitable for creating a persistent network drive or accessing a printer.
Diagnostics and troubleshooting
If computers can't see each other despite the correct settings, the problem may be with your antivirus or drivers. Third-party antivirus programs (Kaspersky, ESET, Avast) often have their own firewall that blocks the local network. Try temporarily disabling network protection or adding your network to the trusted list in your antivirus settings.
It's also worth checking Windows services. The following network-related services have empty names: "Machine Discovery Resource Publishing," "SSDP Discovery Service," and "Discovery Provider Host Device." If they are stopped, start them. Sometimes resetting the network settings with the command netsh winsock reset in the command line running as administrator.
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Computers are not visible on the network | Network type "Public" | Change your profile to "Private" |
| Asks for a password | Password protection is enabled | Disable in the network center or add an account |
| No access to the folder | No rights in the "Security" tab | Add user "Everyone" with read permissions |
| Unstable speed | Wi-Fi interference or old standard | Switch to 5 GHz or check your router's channel |
☑️ Connection diagnostics
Optimizing data transfer speed
File copy speed over Wi-Fi depends heavily on the frequency band. If your router is dual-band, be sure to connect both computers to the network. 5 GHzThe 2.4 GHz standard is often overloaded in apartment buildings, resulting in actual speeds dropping to 2-4 MB/s, while 5 GHz allows speeds of 20-50 MB/s and higher.
Distance to the router and the presence of obstacles also matter. For large data transfers (hundreds of gigabytes), it's best to move closer to the access point or use a Wi-Fi repeater with pass-through support. Remember that speed is always limited by the weakest link in the chain—if one laptop is old and only supports Wi-Fi 4 (N), speeds will be low for everyone.
⚠️ Note: Interfaces and setting names may vary depending on your Windows version (10, 11) and router model. If you don't find a specific option, look for a similar one in your device's documentation.
For maximum performance when working with large files, you can disable TCP autotuning in Windows, although in most cases, the default settings are optimal. Experimenting with deeper registry settings is only worthwhile if you're experiencing issues with specific network hardware.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to connect computers directly without a router?
Yes, this is possible using Wi-Fi Direct technology or by creating a computer-to-computer (Ad-hoc) network. In Windows 10/11, this is done via the command line (hosted network) or the Mobile Hotspot feature, where one PC distributes Wi-Fi and the other connects to it. However, the speed and stability of such a connection are usually lower than with a full-fledged router.
Why is the computer visible, but the folder won't open?
Most often, the issue is with NTFS permissions. Even if you shared the folder using "Sharing," you need to go to "Properties" → "Security" and add the "Everyone" user or a specific user, granting them read permissions. Also, check if your antivirus software is blocking access.
Does internet speed affect file transfer speed over the network?
No, it doesn't. The local area network (LAN) operates independently of the ISP's wide area network (WAN). File copy speed is limited only by the capabilities of your Wi-Fi router, network cards, and the distance between devices. You can transfer files at maximum speed even without internet access.
How to hide a folder from others but leave it accessible to one PC?
When setting up sharing, do not select the "Everyone" checkbox. In the sharing window, remove the "Everyone" group and add a specific user whose name and password match on the receiving computer. Then, when connecting, the system will automatically authorize this user.