How to create a network folder between two computers via Wi-Fi

Setting up a local area network at home is no longer the preserve of system administrators at large companies. Today, the ability to quickly transfer a large movie, project, or photo archive between a laptop and a desktop PC without flash drives or cloud storage is a basic level of convenience. network folder Using a Wi-Fi router allows you to connect devices into a single ecosystem where files are instantly available at high speed.

The setup process may seem confusing due to the numerous security settings in modern operating systems. However, if you break the task down into sequential steps, it can be completed in 10-15 minutes. All you need is a stable Wi-Fi connection and administrator rights on both devices.

In this guide, we'll cover not only the standard workflow, but also answer questions that arise when access errors occur. Windows 10 And Windows 11 have similar logic for working with network resources, but the interface may differ slightly.

Checking conditions and preparing equipment

Before setting up shared resources, you need to ensure the foundation is laid correctly. The most critical aspect is ensuring both computers are on the same subnet. If one laptop is connected to the guest Wi-Fi network and the other to the main network, they won't be able to see each other, even if they're physically close.

Check the network type assigned to your connection. For sharing to work correctly, the network profile must be "Private," not "Public." For security reasons, the system blocks device discovery in the public profile.

⚠️ Attention: If you're using corporate Wi-Fi with client isolation, you won't be able to create a direct connection between PCs. This feature is often enabled in cafes and offices to protect user data.

It's also worth making sure that the necessary network services are enabled on both devices. Sometimes antivirus software can block local connections, mistaking them for an external attack.

Setting up sharing in Control Panel

The first step of setup is done through the classic Windows Control Panel, as the new Settings app doesn't include all the necessary switches. You need to open the Network and Internet menu, then go to Network and Sharing Center.

On the left side of the window, find the "Change advanced sharing settings" link. This opens a menu containing key visibility settings for your computer.

In the "Private" (current) profile, you need to activate the following options:

• 📡 Turn on network discovery.
• 📁 Enable file and printer sharing.
• 🔐 Allow Windows to manage HomeGroup connections (if available).

Next, go to the "All Networks" section. Here you'll find the important "Password-protected sharing" toggle. If you want to access folders without entering your username and password each time you connect, select "Turn off password-protected sharing."

After making changes, be sure to click the "Save Changes" button. Without this step, the settings will not be applied, and your computer will remain invisible to other devices on the network.

Creating and sharing a folder

Now that the network stack is ready, you can create the resource itself. You can use any existing folder or create a new one specifically for file sharing. Right-click the object and select "Properties."

In the window that opens, go to the "Sharing" tab. Click the "Advanced Settings" button. In the dialog box that appears, check the "Share this folder" box.

Below is the "Permissions" button. Here you can fine-tune user permissions:

• ✅ Full access: allows you to read, write, modify, and delete files.
• 📖 Edit: Allows editing and deletion, but not changing access rights.
• 👁️ Read: The user can only open and copy files, but cannot modify them.

For a home network, adding the "Everyone" group and granting full permissions is usually sufficient if you trust everyone connected to your Wi-Fi. This will simplify connection from mobile devices and TVs.

Don't forget to also check the "Security" tab in the folder's properties. If the "Everyone" user or the specific user you want to grant access to isn't listed there, add them and assign the appropriate permissions.

Why might the Security tab look different from the Access tab?

The "Access" tab manages network protocols (SMB), and the "Security" tab manages NTFS file system permissions. Permissions work on a least-value basis: if access is denied in one tab but allowed in the other, the user will not be able to log in.

Connecting to a network folder on a second PC

Once the folder is shared on the first computer, move on to the second device. Open File Explorer and enter the IP address or network name of the first computer in the address bar. The input format is: \\192.168.1.XX or \\ComputerName.

You can find out the IP address of the first PC by launching the command line (cmd) and entering the command ipconfigLook for the "IPv4 Address" line in the section for your Wi-Fi adapter.

If everything is configured correctly, you'll see a list of shared folders. For ease of use, you can mount a network folder as a separate drive. To do this:

1. In File Explorer, right-click on This PC.
2. Select Map Network Drive.
3. Specify the drive letter and path to the folder.
4. Check the box "Restore at logon".

The system may ask for credentials. Enter the username and password for the user account. first computer (the one where the folder is located). If password protection is disabled, login should occur automatically.

Troubleshooting errors and access issues

Even with the correct settings, Windows can exhibit characteristic unpredictability. One of the most common problems is the error "Windows cannot access..." This is often due to the system being unable to resolve the computer name to an IP address.

Try using the IP address instead of the name. If that doesn't help, check the "Discovery Provider Host" service. It should be running and in automatic mode.

Another common issue is a conflict between SMB protocol versions. Older devices (such as TVs or older laptops) may require SMB 1.0, which is disabled by default in newer Windows versions due to vulnerabilities.

⚠️ Attention: Enabling SMB 1.0 reduces network security. Only do this if you are confident in the strength of your Wi-Fi password and trust all devices on the network.

It's also worth checking your firewall. Sometimes it blocks incoming connections for the "Private" network type. Try temporarily disabling the firewall for diagnostic purposes.

Local network security via Wi-Fi

Open file sharing is convenient, but it carries risks, especially if your neighbors can connect to your Wi-Fi. Make sure your wireless network is protected by modern encryption standards. WPA2 or WPA3.

Don't use a guest network for file sharing if it has client isolation enabled. It's best to create a separate VLAN or use the main network with a strong password.

If you work with sensitive data, consider using complex passwords for user accounts, even if they are shared with everyone. This will create an additional barrier.

Update your router firmware regularly. Manufacturers often patch security holes that allow attackers to access local resources.

Is it possible to hide a folder on the network?

Yes, if you add a dollar sign ($) to the end of the folder name (e.g., Docs$), it won't show up in normal view, but will be accessible via a direct path.

Why can't the second computer see the first one, even though there is only one Wi-Fi?

Most likely, the network is set to "Public" on one of your devices. Go to Settings -> Network & Internet -> Wi-Fi -> Manage known networks and switch the profile to "Private." Also, check if "Network Discovery" is enabled.

How do I find out the IP address of a computer to connect to?

Press Win+R, enter cmd and press Enter. In the black window, type ipconfigFind the "Wireless LAN Adapter" section and the "IPv4 Address" line. It usually looks like 192.168.1.XX.

Is internet required for a network folder to work?

No, internet access is not required. The local network operates through a router regardless of whether the internet connection is active or not. The main requirement is that the devices are connected to the same router.

Is it possible to share a folder between Windows and macOS?

Yes, this is possible via the SMB protocol. On a Mac, select "Connect to Server" in Finder and enter the Windows PC's address. On Windows, you may need to configure access rights for the guest user.