How to share a folder between two computers via WiFi in Windows 10

Establishing local file sharing on your home network is a basic skill that significantly simplifies working with data across devices. Instead of constantly transferring documents via flash drives or uploading them to cloud storage, you can set up instant access to folders directly through local networkThis is especially relevant for owners of laptops and desktop PCs connected to the same router.

The setup process in the operating system Windows 10 has become more secure, but also somewhat more complex than previous versions. The system requires several prerequisites, such as properly configuring the network profile and enabling certain services. If these nuances are ignored, computers simply won't see each other, despite an active Wi-Fi connection.

In this article, we'll cover every step in detail, from changing the network type to setting up access rights. You'll learn how to create shared resources that will be accessible to other devices in your home or office without the need for constant password entry or complex IP address manipulation.

Preparing network parameters and profile

The first step is to check how Windows classifies your current connection. For device discovery to work properly, the network must be set to "Private." If the system considers your home WiFi network "Public," it automatically blocks other devices from seeing your computer for security purposes. security.

To change this setting, open the Start menu and go to "Settings," then select "Network & Internet." In the list on the left, find "Status" and click on your WiFi connection properties. Here, you need to switch the profile from "Public" to "Private."

⚠️ Note: Changing your network profile to "Private" makes your computer visible to other devices within range of the router. Make sure you trust the network you're connecting to, especially if it's guest WiFi at a cafe or hotel.

After changing the profile, it's recommended to reboot the network adapter or simply reconnect to the access point. This will enable the necessary discovery protocols, which are disabled by default on public networks. The system is now ready for more detailed sharing settings.

Setting up sharing options

The next step requires accessing the Network and Sharing Center. This is where the key switches for allowing or disabling data sharing are located. You can find this section through the Control Panel or by entering a query in the search bar, but the fastest way is to use the command control.exe /name Microsoft.NetworkAndSharingCenter.

In the window that opens on the left, select "Change advanced sharing settings." A list of profiles will appear, and you should expand the "Private (current profile)" tab. This is where you'll find the main controls for controlling your PC's visibility.

• ✅ Enable network discovery - allows other computers to see your device.
• ✅ Enable file and printer sharing — allows data transfer.
• ✅ Let Windows manage HomeGroup connections — optimizes the performance of services.

It's also important to check the "All Networks" section at the bottom of the list. Find "Password-protected sharing" and select "Turn off password-protected sharing." This will simplify the connection, eliminating the need to enter credentials every time you access files from another computer.

Creating and sharing a folder

Once your network environment is ready, you can begin creating the resource you plan to share. Select any existing folder or create a new one in a convenient location, such as on a drive. D: or in the root of the disk C:Give it a clear name so you don't get confused when connecting.

Right-click the selected directory and select "Properties." Go to the "Sharing" tab. Click "Advanced Settings," then check the box next to "Share this folder." In the "Share name" field, you can accept the system-suggested name or enter your own.

Pay special attention to the "Permissions" button. Here, you need to ensure that the "Everyone" group or a specific user has permission to read and, if necessary, modify files. Without these permissions, even if the folder is visible, access to its contents will be denied.

Click "OK" in all open windows to apply the changes. From now on, the folder will be marked with a shared folder icon (a hand under the folder), indicating it's accessible to other network members.

Checking services and group policies

A common issue in Windows 10 is the automatic stopping of services responsible for device detection. If, after all the settings have been adjusted, the computers still cannot see each other, you need to check the status of the system services. Press the following key combination: Win + R and enter the command services.msc.

In the list that opens, find the services related to discovery. Their status should be "Running" and their startup type should be "Automatic." If they are stopped, double-click them and start them manually.

• 🔹 Discovery function - responsible for network discovery.
• 🔹 Feature Discovery Resource Publishing - Allows you to publish your PC to the network.
• 🔹 Discovery Provider Host - required for discovery protocols to work.

It's also worth checking whether your antivirus or firewall is blocking access. Sometimes third-party software may detect network connection attempts as suspicious activity. In this case, you'll need to add an exception for the private network in your security software settings.

⚠️ Note: Settings interfaces may vary slightly depending on the Windows 10 build version (e.g., 1909, 21H2, 22H2). Microsoft periodically updates the layout of some menu items.

Connecting to a shared folder from another PC

Once all settings are complete on the primary computer, navigate to the second device connected to the same WiFi network. Open File Explorer and find "Network" in the left navigation panel. If everything is set up correctly, you'll see the name of the first computer.

If your computer doesn't show up automatically, you can connect manually using its IP address. Find out the IP address of your host PC (command ipconfig in the command line) and enter it in the address bar of the explorer in the format \\192.168.1.XX, where XX is the address of your device.

For easy, ongoing use, you can map a network folder as a separate drive. To do this, right-click "This PC" in File Explorer and select "Map network drive." Specify the drive letter and path to the shared folder.

Once connected, the folder will be accessible as a regular local drive, allowing programs (video editors, players) to work with files directly, without having to copy them first.

Common mistakes and how to solve them

Despite the clear instructions, users often encounter error codes such as 0x80070035 ("Network path not found") or 0x80070043 ("Network name not found"). These errors most often indicate DNS issues or blocked SMB ports.

One possible cause is a disabled SMB 1.0 protocol, which is sometimes required for communication with older devices, although it's disabled by default in Windows 10 for security reasons. Enabling it should only be done if other methods fail, using the "Turn Windows features on or off" menu.

Also make sure that both computers are in the same workgroup. By default, this is the group WORKGROUPYou can check this in the system properties. Different workgroup names may prevent computers from appearing in the list of network resources.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)