Setting up a local network between two computers via a Wi-Fi router

Organizing data exchange between devices within a single apartment or office is a basic task faced by every user of modern digital technology. Instead of constantly transferring files to flash drives or sending them via cloud storage, it's much more efficient to set up a direct connection. This allows you to instantly transfer gigabytes of information, play online games, and even share a printer between two different devices.

Modern Wi-Fi routers While these systems automatically create the conditions for basic device interaction, full functionality often requires manual adjustment of operating system settings. Without proper configuration, computers may physically see each other but block access to folders for security reasons. Understanding the principles of a local area network (LAN) will allow you not only to connect two PCs but also to create a reliable infrastructure for a smart home or home media server.

In this article, we'll walk you through the process of creating a local network, from choosing the connection type to troubleshooting common errors. We'll cover settings for both wired (Ethernet) and wireless (Wi-Fi) connections, paying special attention to security settings and shared resources.

Selecting the connection type and checking the equipment

The first step to creating a stable network is to assess the physical infrastructure. If both computers are in the same room, the most reliable and fastest option is to use Ethernet cableA wired connection ensures minimal latency (ping) and maximum data transfer speed, which is critical for working with large files or playing online games.

In case the cable laying is impossible or impractical, a wireless connection is used via Wi-Fi routerIt's important to keep in mind that the speed will be limited by the wireless module's bandwidth and signal strength. For modern standards, Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) And Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) The speed is quite sufficient for comfortable work, but stability may be affected by interference.

⚠️ Important: When using Wi-Fi, ensure both computers are connected to the same network (SSID). If your router broadcasts two networks (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) with different names, the devices must be connected to one of them; otherwise, they may not see each other due to client isolation.

To set up a wired network, you'll need a patch cord (network cable) of the appropriate length. If your router supports the technology, Auto-MDI/MDIX, you can use a regular straight cable, and a crossover cable is not required, since modern devices will automatically detect the connection type.

Configuring IP addressing settings in Windows

After physically connecting the devices, you need to make sure that the operating system correctly assigns network addresses. In most home networks, the router acts as DHCP servers, automatically assigning IP addresses to connected devices. However, for stable local network operation, especially if the router is temporarily unavailable, it's better to assign addresses statically.

Open your network adapter settings by selecting "Network and Internet Settings" from the Start menu. You'll need to go to the protocol properties. IPv4It is important here that the addresses on both computers are in the same subnet, but differ in the last number.

Below is a table with an example of how to correctly configure static IP addresses for two computers:

If you prefer to obtain addresses dynamically, make sure that in the properties IPv4 "Obtain an IP address automatically" is selected. In this case, the network functionality is checked via the command line.

Changing network profile and discovery

By default, Windows treats new connections as public, which enables strict security rules and hides your computer from other devices. To allow other PCs to see your computer, you need to change the network profile to "Private Network."

Go to "Network and Sharing Center" or use Windows 10/11 settings. Find your active connection and change its type from "Public" to "Private." This will allow the system to open ports for local data exchange.

Next, you need to configure sharing settings. In the "Advanced Sharing Settings" window, make sure the following options are enabled:

• 🔍 Enable network discovery.
• 📂 Enable file and printer sharing.
• 🔐 Allow Windows to manage HomeGroup connections (if applicable).

At the bottom of the settings window, we also recommend enabling the "Turn off password-protected sharing" option if you're on a trusted home network. This will prevent you from constantly being prompted for your username and password when logging into another computer.

⚠️ Important: Disabling password protection is only permissible in a fully trusted home network. In offices or other public spaces, this feature should be left enabled, and separate access accounts should be created.

Setting up shared folders and resources

Once the network infrastructure is set up, you need to determine what data will be accessible. Simply enabling network discovery isn't enough—you need to explicitly specify the folders you want to share.

Select the folder you want to share, right-click it, and select "Properties." Go to the "Sharing" tab and click "Advanced." Check the "Share this folder" box.

Here you can also configure access rights for different users. You can allow only reading of files or grant permission to modify and delete content. For a home network, the "Everyone" group with read/write permissions is usually sufficient.

To access a shared folder from another computer, open File Explorer and enter two backslashes and the IP address of the target computer in the address bar, for example: \\192.168.1.10If the settings are correct, you will see a list of available folders.

What should I do if the folder doesn't open via IP?

Try entering the computer name instead of the IP address in the format \\ComputerName. Make sure computer names are unique and do not contain Cyrillic characters, as this sometimes causes name resolution errors in older versions of Windows.

Troubleshooting common connection problems

Even with proper configuration, situations may arise where computers cannot see each other. Most often, the problem lies with Windows Firewall or antivirus software settings that block incoming connections.

Try running network diagnostics. Right-click the network icon in the system tray and select "Diagnose." Windows will automatically attempt to reset the network adapter and fix TCP/IP errors.

You might also want to check the Discovery Resource Publishing service. Click Win + R, enter services.msc and find the service in the list:

• 🛠 Function Discovery Resource Publication.
• 🛠 SSDP Discovery.
• 🛠 UPnP Device Host.

Set the startup type for each of these services to "Automatic" and start them if they are stopped. This ensures that the computer actively advertises its presence on the network.

⚠️ Note: Settings interfaces and service names may vary slightly depending on your Windows version (10, 11) and installed security updates. If you can't find the option, search for keywords in the system settings.

Using the command line for diagnostics

For a more in-depth analysis of network status, specialists use the command line. This powerful tool allows them to check node availability and port status without using a graphical interface.

Open Command Prompt (CMD) as administrator. To test the connection to another computer, use the command pingEnter . ping 192.168.1.11 (where 1.11 is the second PC's address). If you see the response "Reply from...," then the physical connection and basic IP settings are correct.

C:\Users\User>ping 192.168.1.11

Exchange of packets from 192.168.1.11 to 32 bytes:
Reply from 192.168.1.11: number of bytes = 32 time = 2ms TTL = 128
Reply from 192.168.1.11: number of bytes=32 time=1ms TTL=128

If ping fails, check the ARP table with the command arp -aThis will show whether your computer knows the physical MAC address of your network neighbor. A missing entry may indicate issues with the switching or Wi-Fi adapter drivers.

In case of complex errors, network settings can be reset using the command netsh int ip reset, after which a system reboot is required. This will reset the Windows network stack to factory settings.

Local network security

Open file access is convenient, but potentially dangerous if hackers gain access to your network. Even on home Wi-Fi, it's recommended to practice basic digital hygiene.

Use strong passwords for Windows user accounts. If you have password protection enabled, a weak password can be brute-forced. Also, update your router firmware regularly, as manufacturers are patching vulnerabilities that could allow access from the local network to the global network.

• 🔒 Turn off folder sharing when you don't need it.
• 🔒 Use a guest Wi-Fi network for visitors' devices, isolating them from your main PCs.
• 🔒 Check which ports are open on your computer using port scanners or built-in monitoring tools.

Remember that a local network is a bridge between your devices. The reliability of this bridge depends on proper hardware configuration and careful attention to operating system security settings.

Why can't computers see each other even though there is internet?

Most often, the problem lies with the "Public" network profile, which blocks detection. Your antivirus software may also be blocking local connections. Check your firewall settings.

Is it possible to connect computers without a router?

Yes, this is called an ad-hoc network or a direct cable connection. However, for stability and internet access from both devices, it's better to use a router or switch.

What speed will a Wi-Fi network provide for file transfer?

Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) delivers real-world speeds of around 20-40 Mbps. Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) delivers speeds of 60-100 Mbps and higher, comparable to a fast wired connection.

Do I need to set up a static IP if I have a router?

Not necessarily. Your router's DHCP is usually stable. A static IP is necessary if you're setting up a media server or network printer, so the address doesn't change after a reboot.