How to create a local network between two computers using your phone's Wi-Fi

When you need to quickly transfer large files between a desktop computer and a laptop, but don't have an Ethernet cable or a full-fledged router handy, a smartphone comes to the rescue. Modern mobile devices can emulate the operation of a full-fledged router. router, creating an isolated access point. This allows devices to be connected to a single local network even without an active internet connection.

This method is often a lifesaver on business trips, in offices with strict security policies, or at home when the primary equipment fails. You don't need complex software or special drivers, as the functionality is built into the operating systems. However, there are some configuration nuances that must be considered for stable operation.

In this guide, we'll cover the setup process, potential device visibility issues, and ways to optimize data transfer speeds. Understanding the operating principles TCP/IP protocols in this context will help to avoid typical configuration errors.

Operating principle and technical limitations

When you activate the Hotspot function on your smartphone, the device starts working as DHCP server, automatically assigning IP addresses to connected clients. In a standard situation, the phone distributes internet access received via a 4G/5G mobile network. However, having a SIM card or cellular coverage is not a requirement for creating a local network.

Computers connected to the phone's Wi-Fi network are assigned to the same subnet segment. Typically, addressing occurs in the range 192.168.43.x or 192.168.1.x, where the phone itself acts as a gateway. It is through this gateway that packets are routed between connected PCs.

⚠️ Please note: The data transfer speed in such a network is limited by the bandwidth of the phone's Wi-Fi module and the Wi-Fi standard (often 2.4 GHz), as well as the operation of the smartphone's processor, which can heat up under intensive load.

It's important to understand that the phone in this scenario only acts as a bridge. If you don't disable mobile data, traffic may leak to the outside world, draining your data plan. Therefore, for a clean local network, it's recommended to temporarily disable mobile data in the settings.

The Impact of Wi-Fi Standards on Speed

Local network speeds will depend on the standard supported by your phone (802.11n, ac, or ax) and the receiving computer. If your phone only operates in the 2.4 GHz band, the actual speed will likely not exceed 20-25 MB/s, even if your data plan allows for higher speeds.

Setting up a hotspot on Android and iOS

The process of activating tethering mode on different platforms has its own peculiarities, but the general algorithm of actions is similar. On devices running Android You need to go to the connection settings. Typically, the path looks like this: Settings → Connections → Mobile hotspot & tethering.

It's important not just toggling the switch, but to configure security settings. Click "Configure Access Point" or something similar. Make sure encryption is selected. WPA2 PSK, as open networks are vulnerable to data interception even on the local network. Set a clear network name (SSID) and a complex password.

• 📱 On iPhone, go to Settings → Cellular → Personal Hotspot and turn on "Allow others".
• 🔒 On Android, in the advanced hotspot settings, select the 5 GHz frequency band if both computers support this standard for higher speeds.
• 📡 Make sure that there is no limit on the number of connected devices in the access point settings (there should be at least 2-3).
• 🔋 Disable power saving mode on your phone to prevent the system from turning off Wi-Fi to save battery.

iOS users should be aware that Apple strictly controls access to network interfaces. In tethering mode, iPhones may not allow devices to "see" each other as freely as Android devices do due to client isolation. In some cases, a third-party app from the App Store may be required to create a full-fledged local server if the PCs cannot find each other using standard tools.

📊 What device do you use as a router?

Android smartphone

iPhone

Android tablet

Other device

Connecting computers and checking the connection

Once the hotspot on your phone is active, you need to connect both computers to the created Wi-Fi network. From the list of available networks, select the name (SSID) you specified earlier and enter the password. Make sure both devices have IP addresses from the same subnet.

To check the connection in the operating system Windows Open the command prompt. Click Win + R, enter cmd and press Enter. In the black window, enter the command ipconfig and find the line "IPv4 address". The first three digits of the address should match for both computers (for example, 192.168.43.15 and 192.168.43.102).

ping 192.168.43.102 -t

This command sends data packets to the second computer. If you see the response "Reply from...," then the physical connection and basic routing are working correctly. If you see "Timeout exceeded," the problem lies in the firewall settings or network profile.

Parameter	Computer A	Computer B	Telephone (Gateway)
IP address	192.168.43.15	192.168.43.102	192.168.43.1
Subnet mask	255.255.255.0	255.255.255.0	255.255.255.0
Main gateway	192.168.43.1	192.168.43.1	-
Status	Connected	Connected	Distributes Wi-Fi

If addresses begin with 169.254.xx, this means the phone's DHCP server did not assign an address automatically. In this case, you will need to manually enter static IP addresses in the protocol properties. IPv4.

Setting up sharing in Windows

The most common issue users encounter is that computers are connected to the same network but can't see each other's shared folders. By default, Windows considers new networks "Public" and blocks discovery. You need to change the network profile to "Private."

Go to Settings → Network and Internet → Wi-FiClick the name of the connected network and select "Private." Then, enable network discovery. Open "Control Panel" (you can find it in the search bar), go to "Network and Sharing Center" → "Change advanced sharing settings."

In the "Private (Current Profile)" section, do the following:

• ✅ Enable network discovery.
• ✅ Enable file and printer sharing.
• ✅ Allow Windows to manage HomeGroup connections.

It's also recommended to enable password-protected sharing in the "All Networks" section if you're in a secure location, or disable it for easier access if security isn't a concern (for example, when transferring large amounts of data between your devices).

☑️ Setting up sharing

Change profile to PrivateEnable network discoveryEnable file sharingCheck Ping's operationOpen access to the folder

Completed: 0 / 5

⚠️ Note: Windows settings interfaces may differ depending on the version (10 or 11) and installed updates. If you can't find the item, search for it in the system settings.

Create a shared folder and transfer files

After setting up your network, you need to select the resource you want to share. Create a new folder or select an existing one. Right-click it, select "Properties," and then go to the "Sharing" tab.

Click the "Advanced Settings" button and check the "Share this folder" box. Under "Permissions," ensure that the "Everyone" group or a specific user has "Full Control" permission if you plan to not only read but also write files.

To access files on the second computer, open File Explorer and enter the IP address of the first computer in the address bar, for example: \\192.168.43.15If everything is configured correctly, a window with shared resources will open. When prompted for credentials, enter the username and password for the Windows account on the first computer.

Copy speed will depend on many factors, but this method can achieve speeds comparable to a 100 Mbps wired connection, and on modern devices, even higher. This is significantly faster than transferring via Bluetooth or cloud services with data limits.

Alternative methods and specialized software

If standard Windows network settings fail, or cross-platform transfer is required (for example, between Windows and macOS or Linux), specialized software that runs over the local network can be used. Such programs often bypass complex firewall settings by using their own ports.

A popular solution is the utility Dukto or its modern analogues, as well as Resilio Sync or SyncthingThese programs automatically discover other devices on the local network. Simply install the app on both computers, and they'll see each other without manually entering IP addresses.

Another option is to use an FTP server on one of the computers. In Windows, you can enable Internet Information Services (IIS) or use lightweight servers like FileZilla ServerThis provides more flexible control over transferred files and allows connection even from mobile devices via file managers.

⚠️ Warning: When using third-party software, make sure it is downloaded from the developer's official website to avoid introducing malicious code into your local network.

Why can't computers see each other even though Wi-Fi is connected?

Most likely, the "Public" network profile is enabled, blocking detection. Your antivirus's firewall may also be blocking incoming connections. Check that the first three digits of your IP addresses match.

Is it possible to play local games over the phone network?

Yes, if the game supports LAN (Local Area Network) mode. Latency (ping) on ​​such a network is usually minimal (1-5 ms), which is quite comfortable for shooters and strategy games, but stability depends on the phone's processor load.

Does this network consume mobile data?

Transferring files between computers doesn't consume bandwidth. However, if background processes (Windows updates, cloud sync) are running on both computers, they may attempt to access the internet. To ensure this, disable mobile data on your phone.

What is the maximum range of such a network?

The range is determined by the smartphone's Wi-Fi module, which is usually weaker than that of a full-fledged router. In an unobstructed room, it's about 10-15 meters, but for stable transfer of large files, it's best to stay within 5 meters.