Creating a local network between a laptop and a desktop computer is one of the most popular tasks for users who want to share files without flash drives or play online games. In the operating system Windows 10 This process has become much simpler, but still requires careful attention to setup details. The main requirement is that both devices must be connected to the same Wi-Fi router, creating a unified local environment.
You don't need to be a network administrator to complete this procedure. Simply follow the profile and access rights setup process described in this article. We'll cover both automatic and manual methods for allowing one computer to be visible in another's network environment.
Checking your network profile and basic settings
The first step before starting any configuration is to check your network profile type. Windows 10 may treat your home network as public by default, which automatically hides your PC from other devices for security purposes. You need to change this status to "Private Network."
To do this, open the Start menu and go to Settings → Network and Internet → Wi-FiSelect the name of your current network. In the window that opens, under the "Network Profile" heading, make sure the option is selected. PrivateIf it's set to "Public," toggle the switch. This will make your computer visible to trusted devices.
After changing the profile, the system will apply the new firewall rules. Your device is now discoverable, but for full functionality, you must enable discovery features in the control panel.
⚠️ Warning: If you are in a cafe or airport, never enable "Private Networks" mode, as this will make your files vulnerable to attacks from strangers in the same Wi-Fi zone.
Setting up sharing options
The next step is to enable discovery services. Even with the correct network profile, without enabling the appropriate checkboxes in the Network and Sharing Center, devices will ignore each other. This is a critical step for file sharing.
Press the key combination Win + R, enter the command control and press Enter. In the window that opens, go to the following path: Network and Internet → Network and Sharing Center → Change advanced sharing settingsHere you will see a list of profiles (Private, Guest, All networks).
In the "Private (Current Profile)" section, do the following:
- 📶 Turn on network discovery and check the box next to "Automatically configure connected network devices."
- 📂 Turn on file and printer sharing.
- 🔐 Allow Windows to manage HomeGroup connections (if available).
Next, expand the "All Networks" section. This is where you'll find a key setting for ease of use: "Password-protected sharing." If you want to allow easy access to folders without entering a username and password, select Disable password-protected sharingThis makes life much easier on a home network.
⚠️ Important: Disabling password protection is only allowed on a trusted home network. In an office or if someone else is using the Wi-Fi network, this could lead to data leakage.
Opening access to specific folders
Once the network infrastructure is set up, you need to determine which resources will be available for viewing. You can share any folder on your drive, whether it's photos, documents, or movies.
Right-click the desired folder and select "Properties." Go to the "Sharing" tab and click "Sharing...." In the window that opens, select "Everyone" from the drop-down list and click "Add."
After adding the "Everyone" user, in the "Permission Level" column, select the desired status:
- 👁️ Read - users will only be able to view and copy files.
- ✏️ Read and write - users will be able to modify, delete, and add new files to the folder.
Click "Share," then "Done." The folder is now available on your local network. Note that the path to it will look like this: \\COMPUTER_NAME\FOLDER_NAME.
What should I do if the folder won't open with administrator rights?
If standard access doesn't work, go to the "Security" tab in the folder's properties. Click "Edit" → "Add" → enter "Everyone" → "Check Names" → OK. Set full permissions for the "Everyone" group. This will remove NTFS system restrictions.
Find and connect to a computer by IP address
Sometimes automatic detection in File Explorer doesn't work immediately. In this case, the most reliable connection method is to directly enter the target computer's IP address. This bypasses any potential delays in the detection service.
First, you need to find the IP address of the computer you want to connect to (on the computer itself). Open the command prompt (cmd) and enter the command:
ipconfigFind the line IPv4 address. It usually looks like this 192.168.1.XX or 192.168.0.XXWrite down these numbers. Then go to the laptop you're connecting from.
Open "This PC" or any file explorer. In the address bar, enter two backslashes and the IP address, for example: \\192.168.1.55Press Enter. If everything is configured correctly, you will see the shared folders.
Comparison of connection methods
There are several ways to establish communication between devices, and the choice depends on your goals. Below is a table to help you choose the best option for your situation.
| Method | Complexity | Speed | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Network Neighborhood (SMB) | Average | High (depending on Wi-Fi) | Constant file exchange, working with documents |
| Close circle | Low | Low/Medium | One-time quick transfer of photos or links |
| Cloud services | Low | Depends on the Internet | Synchronization without being tied to a local network |
| Direct cable connection | High | Maximum | Transferring terabytes of data when Wi-Fi is unstable |
As can be seen from the table, for permanent work within one apartment or office, the classic one is best suited local area network (SMB)It provides maximum data transfer speed over Wi-Fi and does not require the Internet.
However, if you just need to transfer a couple of photos from your phone or laptop to your PC, the built-in Nearby feature (similar to AirDrop) may be more convenient, as it doesn't require complex access rights settings.
Solving typical problems and errors
Even with proper configuration, Windows 10 may display errors such as "You don't have access to...," "Windows can't access...," or simply the absence of computers in the network list. Often, the problem lies with the discovery service.
Click Win + R, enter services.mscFind services:
- 🛠️ Detection function
- 🛠️ Publishing Function Discovery Resources
Set the startup type for both services to "Automatic" and click "Start." Without the "Discovery" service enabled, the computer will not respond to network requests.
Another common issue is a time and date mismatch between devices. If the clocks on your laptop and PC are significantly different, the Kerberos security protocol may block the connection. Make sure the time is synchronized.
Checklist for a successful connection
To make sure you haven't missed anything, use this checklist before diagnosing complex problems.
☑️ Checking connection readiness
If all steps are completed but the computers still can't connect, try temporarily disabling your antivirus or Windows Firewall to test. Third-party security software often blocks local connections.
⚠️ Note: Windows 10 interfaces may vary slightly depending on the build version (21H2, 22H2, etc.). If you can't find the item, try searching for it in system settings.
Questions and Answers (FAQ)
Is it possible to connect a laptop and a PC directly without a router?
Yes, this is possible. You'll need either a special crossover cable (though modern cards can handle a regular one) or create a virtual hotspot on one device to which the other will connect. However, the speed and stability will be lower than with a router.
Why do computers see each other but ask for a password?
This happens if password protection is enabled. Either disable it in the Network and Sharing Center, or enter the username and password for the user account on the computer whose folders you're accessing.
How do I find out my computer name to connect to?
Right-click "This PC" → "Properties." The device name is listed under "Device name, domain name, and workgroup settings." This is the name you should enter after the two slashes: \\ComputerName.
Does this method work between Windows 10 and Windows 11?
Yes, absolutely. SMB protocols and sharing settings are identical in Windows 10 and 11. You can freely connect PCs running different operating systems.