Creating a local area network between computers without using wires is a task that often arises for users who want to quickly transfer files or organize collaborative work within an apartment or office. Wi-Fi connections This eliminates the need for Ethernet cables and allows for the freedom of movement of devices within the router's range. Modern operating systems provide ample tools for implementing this scenario, although hidden security settings can sometimes complicate the process.
In this article we will take a detailed look at how to do it correctly set up a networkso your devices can see each other and exchange data. We'll cover not only standard methods using built-in Windows tools, but also touch on nuances that beginners often overlook. Correct protocol configuration and network profiles is the key to stable operation.
It's worth noting that the data transfer speed in such a connection directly depends on the quality of your wireless signal and the capabilities of your router. If you plan to transfer terabytes of data, keep this in mind. Real Wi-Fi speeds are often only 50-70% of the theoretical maximum due to interference and protocol overhead. However, for most everyday tasks, the throughput is quite sufficient.
Equipment preparation and compatibility testing
Before moving on to software settings, you need to ensure your hardware is ready for operation. Both computers must be equipped with working Wi-Fi modules, whether built-in adapters or external USB receivers. It's crucial that both devices are within a strong signal range, as a weak connection will result in constant disconnects when transferring files.
The next step is to ensure both computers are on the same subnet. This means they must be connected to the same router. If you have a complex network with multiple access points or repeaters, make sure they are in bridge mode or properly configured to exchange traffic between clients. IP addresses devices must differ only in the last digit (for example, 192.168.1.5 and 192.168.1.10).
It's also worth paying attention to the operating system version. While Windows 10 and Windows 11 work well together, connecting to older versions, such as Windows 7, may require additional steps to enable legacy SMB protocols. Make sure your network adapter drivers are updated to the latest version available on the manufacturer's website.
⚠️ Note: Some corporate routers have an AP Isolation feature that prevents devices from seeing each other, even within the same network. If you're in an office or hotel, this feature may be enabled by the administrator, and there's no way to bypass it programmatically.
Setting up a network profile and discovery
The first software step is to change the network profile type. By default, Windows often assigns new connections the "Public Network" profile, which enables strict firewall rules and hides your computer from other devices. You need to change this status to "Private Network" to enable discovery.
To do this, open the network settings from the system tray or the Start menu. In the network status section, find the active Wi-Fi connection and change its properties. After switching to private network mode, the system will automatically allow the necessary ports for the protocol. SMB and detection services.
Next, you need to enable network discovery. Go to "Control Panel" → "Network and Internet" → "Network and Sharing Center." In the left-hand menu, select "Change advanced sharing settings." Here, expand the current profile (Private) and enable the following options:
- 🔍 Enable network discovery
- 📁 Enable file and printer sharing
- 🔌 Allow Windows to manage HomeGroup connections
After making changes, be sure to click "Save Changes." Without this step, your computer will ignore connection requests from other network nodes, even if a physical connection is established.
☑️ Check network settings
Organizing shared access to folders
Once computers "see" each other, you need to determine which resources they will share. Simply enabling discovery isn't enough—you must explicitly tell the system which folders are readable or writable by other users.
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. Below, you can adjust permissions by clicking "Permissions."
It's important to set up access rights correctly. For a home network, it's often convenient to grant full rights to the "Everyone" group to avoid having to fiddle with passwords every time you connect. However, in an office environment, it's better to use specific user accounts to increase security. data security.
Path to advanced settings:
Folder Options → Sharing → Advanced → Permissions
There's also a faster way: use the "Share a specific folder" feature in the same properties menu, where you can simply select a user from the list and click "Add." This method is less flexible, but faster for one-off tasks.
What to do if the folder won't open?
If you encounter an access error when trying to open a shared folder, try temporarily disabling your antivirus or Windows Firewall on the receiving computer. These programs are often the ones blocking the connection, considering it suspicious. Also, check that the credentials match: sometimes Windows requires you to enter the username and password of the remote computer account.
Creating a network via HomeGroup (Legacy) and new methods
Older versions of Windows had a convenient "HomeGroup" feature that automated the setup process. However, in Windows 10 (starting with version 1803) and Windows 11, this feature was removed. Users now have to rely on manual setup or third-party software.
If you use a mixture of older and newer operating systems, you may need to enable SMB 1.0 support. This can be done through "Turn Windows features on or off" in Control Panel. Attention: This protocol should only be enabled if absolutely necessary, as it has security vulnerabilities.
For modern systems, the standard SMB v2/v3 protocol remains the optimal method. It provides encryption of transmitted data and good speed. When connecting to a shared resource via File Explorer (path \\Computer IP address) the system itself agrees on the protocol version to be used.
| Parameter | Home Group (Old) | Manual SMB Configuration (New) | Third-party software |
|---|---|---|---|
| Complexity | Low | Average | Low |
| Security | Average | High | Depends on the software |
| Flexibility | Low | High | Average |
| Win 11 support | No | Yes | Yes |
Using third-party software
When built-in Windows tools seem too cumbersome or unstable, specialized programs come to the rescue. They often create virtual local area networks or use custom transmission protocols, bypassing standard limitations.
One of the most popular solutions is the program SyncThing or Resilio SyncThey allow you to sync folders directly between computers using P2P technology. This means that data doesn't go through third-party servers, but is transferred directly between your devices via Wi-Fi.
Another option is to use instant messaging apps or cloud storage services with LAN synchronization. For example, some file managers have a built-in "Wi-Fi Transfer" feature that generates a QR code or link for quickly connecting a second device.
- 🚀 Speed - high transmission speed within the network
- 🔒 On-the-fly traffic encryption
- 📱 Cross-platform (works with Android and iOS)
The main advantage of third-party solutions is their independence from Windows and router settings. If standard SMB is blocked by a firewall, these programs can often penetrate it using their own ports or tunneling techniques.
⚠️ Important: When installing third-party file transfer software, carefully monitor your firewall settings. The program must be allowed to run on both private and public networks, otherwise it will only see your computer.
Diagnosing problems and troubleshooting errors
Even with proper configuration, situations may arise where computers cannot see each other. The most common cause is Windows services. Ensure that the Discovery Provider Host, Discovery Functional Resources, and Discovery Resource Publishing services are started and running in automatic mode.
To start services, click Win + R, enter services.msc and find the services listed above. If they are stopped, double-click them to start them. This often solves the problem of computers disappearing from the network list.
It's also worth checking the IPv6 protocol. In some cases, disabling it or causing it to malfunction can interfere with device detection. Try temporarily disabling the "IP version 6 (TCP/IPv6)" checkbox in your Wi-Fi adapter's properties and see if that helps.
Command to reset network settings (run as administrator):netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /flushdns
If all else fails, try temporarily disabling your antivirus software and Windows Firewall on both computers. If the connection is restored after this, the issue lies with your traffic filtering rules, and you need to create exceptions for the local subnet.
Why can't computers see each other after a Windows update?
Security updates often change network access policies. After a major update, the system may automatically reset the network profile to "Public" or disable older SMB v1 protocols. Please check your sharing settings again.
Is it possible to connect a PC via Wi-Fi Direct without a router?
Yes, this is possible, but it requires setting up one of the computers as an access point. In Windows 10/11, this is done via "Mobile Hotspot." The second PC connects to the created network as if it were a regular Wi-Fi network, and then the setup process follows the standard procedure.
What is the maximum file transfer speed over Wi-Fi?
Speed depends on the standard (802.11n/ac/ax) and band (2.4 or 5 GHz). In the 5 GHz band, the AC standard can achieve real speeds of 40-60 MB/s, which is comparable to fast USB 2.0. At 2.4 GHz, speeds rarely exceed 3-5 MB/s.