How to Connect Two Computers via Wi-Fi: A Step-by-Step Guide with Settings

Connecting two computers wirelessly is a challenge faced by both experienced and novice users. Whether you need to transfer files without a flash drive, set up collaboration on a local network, or launch a multiplayer game, there are countless options. But it's not always clear which method to choose: via router, creating access point on one of the PCs or using Wi-Fi Direct.

In this article we will look at all the current methods, including a hidden Windows feature to create a virtual bridge between adapters, which is rarely mentioned in standard instructions. You will learn how to set up a connection on Windows 10/11, which security settings are important to check, and how to troubleshoot common errors like "No network access" or low data transfer speeds.

1. Methods for connecting two PCs via Wi-Fi: comparison of methods

Before you begin setting up, determine your goals and conditions:

• 🔌 Via a router — the most stable method if both PCs are connected to the same network. Suitable for gaming, file sharing, and printer sharing.
• 📡 Access point on one of the PCs — a solution if you don't have a router. One computer distributes the internet, and the other connects to it. Disadvantage: high load on the laptop battery.
• 🔄 Wi-Fi Direct — direct connection without intermediaries (like Bluetooth, but faster). Doesn't work with all adapters.
• 🌉 Bridge between adapters — a rarely used but effective method for connecting a PC via Ethernet and Wi-Fi simultaneously.

For most tasks, the first or second option is sufficient. If you need maximum speed (for example, for transferring large files), it is better to use Ethernet cable — but this is no longer about Wi-Fi.

* Actual speed depends on the Wi-Fi standard (802.11ac/ax), the number of connected devices, and interference.

2. Connecting via a router: step-by-step instructions

This is the most reliable method if you have a home router. Both computers must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

Steps for Windows 10/11:

1. On both PCs, open Control Panel → Network and Internet → Network and Sharing Center.
2. In the "View active networks" section, make sure that both devices are connected to the same network (the name must match).
3. Click Change advanced sharing settings and turn on:
   • 🔹 Network discovery
   • 🔹 File and Printer Sharing
   • 🔹 Allow Windows to manage connections

Now you can share files: open access to the folder (right-click → “Properties” → “Access” → “Share”) and connect to it from another PC via \\COMPUTER_NAME in Explorer.

Both PCs are connected to the same router|Workgroup names are the same|File sharing is enabled|Firewall is disabled (temporarily for testing)-->

⚠️ Attention: If after setup the PCs don't see each other, check if there is an issue blocking access antivirus (For example, Kaspersky or Avast). Add the local network to the exceptions.

3. Create an access point on one of the computers

If there is no router, one of the PCs can distribute Wi-Fi. This method works on Windows 10/11 and most laptops with Wi-Fi adapter.

Instructions:

1. On the PC that will be distributing the Internet, open Command prompt as administrator and run:

   netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode=allow ssid=MyWiFi key=12345678 keyUsage=persistent

   Here MyWiFi — network name, 12345678 — password (minimum 8 characters).

2. Start the network:

   netsh wlan start hostednetwork

3. Open Control Panel → Network Connections, find the new "Wireless Network" connection (named MyWiFi) and allow internet sharing through it (right-click → “Properties” → “Access” tab).

On the second PC, connect to the created network MyWiFi as with regular Wi-Fi.

⚠️ Attention: After rebooting the distributing PC, you need to re-enter the command netsh wlan start hostednetworkTo automate the process, create .bat-file with this command and add it to startup.

4. Direct connection via Wi-Fi Direct (if supported)

Wi-Fi Direct Allows you to connect devices without a router, just like Bluetooth, but at higher speeds. However, not all adapters support this feature.

How to check and configure:

1. On both PCs, open Command line and enter:

   ipconfig /all

   Look for the "Description" line next to your wireless adapter. If it contains the words Wi-Fi Direct or Miracast, the function is supported.

2. IN Windows 11 open Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Devices and enable search. On the second PC, select the detected computer in the same menu and connect.
3. IN Windows 10 third-party software may be required, such as WiFi Direct Utility from the adapter manufacturer.

The connection speed is usually lower than through a router, but there is no need to configure the network - devices see each other automatically.

5. Bridge connection between adapters (advanced method)

This method is useful if one PC is connected to the Internet via a cable (Ethernet), and the second one is only via Wi-Fi. We will create bridgeso that both devices can exchange data directly.

Instructions:

1. On a PC with two network adapters (Wi-Fi and Ethernet), open Control Panel → Network Connections.
2. Select both connections (press and hold Ctrl), right-click and select "Configure Bridge".
3. After creating the bridge, connect the second PC to the first one's Wi-Fi network (if it is shared) or vice versa.

This method requires a good understanding of networking, as it may conflict with your router's DHCP settings. Use it only if other methods fail.

⚠️ Attention: Bridging between adapters can reduce internet speed on the primary PC. If performance is important to you, it's better to use Wi-Fi sharing via the command line (method from section 3).

6. Checking the connection and troubleshooting

After setup, check if the network functions are working:

• 📁 Sharing folders: try to open \\COMPUTER_NAME in Explorer.
• 🎮 Online games: launch Minecraft or Counter-Strike in LAN mode.
• 📊 Transfer speed: Copy a large file (1+ GB) and time it.

Typical problems and solutions:

Error	Cause	Solution
"No network access"	Incorrect sharing settings	Check the parameters in Network and Control Center (section 2)
Low speed (less than 1 MB/s)	Interference or outdated Wi-Fi standard	Switch the router to 5 GHz or change the channel in the settings
The PC does not see another computer.	Different workgroups or firewall blocking	Set the same workgroup and disable the firewall temporarily
IP Conflict Error	Two devices received the same IP	Reboot your router or assign static IP manually

7. Alternative Methods: When Wi-Fi Isn't Enough

If your wireless connection is unstable, consider alternatives:

• 🔗 Ethernet cable: Speeds up to 1–10 Gbps, no lag. Suitable for gaming and large file transfers.
• 🔄 Powerline adapters: data transmission via electrical wiring (speed up to 1 Gbit/s, but depends on the quality of the wiring).
• 📶 4G/5G modem with Wi-Fi support: if you need to connect PCs in different rooms without a router.

For temporary file transfer you can use:

• 📱 Smartphone as an intermediary: connect both PCs to the phone via USB (mode USB modem) or Wi-Fi.
• ☁️ Cloud services: Google Drive, Dropbox or Mega (suitable for small files).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to connect a Windows PC and macOS via Wi-Fi?

Yes, but the setup is more complicated. macOS you need to enable sharing in System Preferences → Sharing and allow connections via AFP or SMBOn Windows - use the protocol SMB (included in Control Panel → Programs → Turn on Windows features). Data exchange speed may be lower due to differences in protocols.

Why does the speed drop to 0 and then recover when transferring files?

This is a typical problem when using access points on a PCReasons:

• Overheating of the Wi-Fi adapter (especially on laptops).
• Background processes that consume bandwidth (e.g. Windows update).
• Unstable adapter driver.

Solution: Update the driver, disable power saving for the adapter in Device Manager or use a router.

How to protect the connection between two PCs from outsiders?

Minimum safety measures:

• Use a complex Wi-Fi password (at least 12 characters with numbers and special characters).
• Turn it off WPS in the router settings (this is a vulnerable protocol).
• Enable filtering by MAC address in the router (allow only the addresses of your PCs).
• For access point on PC use command with keyUsage=persistentso that the password is not reset.

Is it possible to play online games through such a connection?
Technically yes, but with some caveats:
• 🎮 Local games (LAN): will work without problems (for example, Minecraft, Counter-Strike 1.6).
• 🌍 Online games: If one PC shares the internet with another, lag may occur due to dual routing. It's best to connect both PCs directly to the router.

For competitive games (Dota 2, Fortnite) wired connection recommended.

netsh wlan show interfaces