How to connect laptops to a local network via Wi-Fi: 3 proven methods

Connecting laptops to a local network via Wi-Fi is a challenge faced by office workers, gamers, and students who need to quickly share files. Unlike a wired connection, a wireless network offers freedom of movement, but it requires proper configuration of adapters and protocols. Today, we'll explore this. three main methods: Creation Ad-Hoc-networks (outdated, but working), using the mode SoftAP (access point) and connecting through an existing router. Each option has its own nuances, from device limitations to differences in data transfer speeds.

Many people mistakenly believe that to connect two laptops, simply turning on Wi-Fi on both is enough. In practice, however, you need to configure IP addressing, choose the correct one adapter operating mode and sometimes even update drivers. This is especially important for devices running Windows 10/11, where the network settings interface has undergone changes. In this article, you'll find step-by-step instructions based on the latest OS updates, as well as tips for troubleshooting common errors—from connection issues to problems discovering devices on the network.

If you need to transfer files up to 10 GB in size or organize collaboration in programs like 1C or AutoCADA local Wi-Fi network is the optimal solution. The key is to choose a method that suits your needs and the technical capabilities of your equipment.

1. Preparing laptops: checking compatibility and drivers

Before you begin setting up your network, make sure both laptops support the selected connection mode. Modern devices (manufactured after 2018) are typically equipped with adapters that support SoftAP, but older models may require Ad-Hoc-mode. You can check this through device Manager:

How to open Device Manager:

1. Click Win + X and select device Manager.
2. Expand the tab Network adapters.
3. Find the name of your Wi-Fi module (for example, Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX200 or Qualcomm Atheros QCA61x4).

If the adapter name contains the words Wireless-N or Dual Band, it supports modern standards. To clarify the capabilities of a specific model, please visit the manufacturer's official website (for example, Intel or Broadcom).

Critical information: adapters based on Realtek RTL8188EE and RTL8723BE chips do not support SoftAP mode in Windows 11 without additional drivers. If you have exactly this module, use the method with connection via a router or configure Ad-Hoc-net.

2. Method 1: Creating an Ad-Hoc network (for Windows 7/10/11)

Ad-Hoc (from the Latin "for this") is a mode that allows you to connect laptops directly, without a router. It is inferior in speed and stability. SoftAP, but is suitable for devices with older adapters. Windows 11 This method is hidden, but it can be activated via the command line.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Open Command line as administrator (click Win + S, enter cmd, then Ctrl + Shift + Enter).
2. Enter the command to create the network:

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

   Replace MyAdHocNet to the desired network name, and 12345678 — password (minimum 8 characters).

3. Start the network with the command:

   netsh wlan start hostednetwork

On the second laptop, connect to the newly created network using the standard Wi-Fi menu. Once connected, test the connection by sending ping from one device to another (more on this in the "Connection Check" section).

The adapter supports Ad-Hoc mode (checked in Device Manager)|

VPN and firewall are disabled on both laptops|

The network name (SSID) does not contain Cyrillic characters or spaces|

The network password consists of Latin characters and numbers-->

⚠️ Attention: In Windows 11 after the update KB5028254 (May 2023) team netsh wlan start hostednetwork may return the error "Failed to start the hosted network." The solution is to update the Wi-Fi adapter driver to version no lower than 22.240.0 (for Intel) or 10.0.0.465 (for Qualcomm).

3. Method 2: SoftAP (Access Point) Mode

Mode SoftAP (Software Access Point) turns one laptop into a virtual router that other devices can connect to. This method is more stable. Ad-Hoc and supports up to 8 connections simultaneously (in theory; in practice - 3-4 without loss of speed). The setting is carried out through Windows Settings or third-party utilities like Connectify Hotspot.

Configuration using standard Windows 11 tools:

1. Open Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile Hotspot.
2. In the field Sharing an Internet connection select Wi-Fi.
3. Click Change and set the network name (SSID) and password (minimum 8 characters).
4. Activate the switch Mobile hotspot.

On the second laptop, connect to the created access point as you would to a regular Wi-Fi network. For file sharing, it is recommended to use the protocol SMB (through Network environment) or programs like LocalSend (analogue AirDrop for Windows).

4. Method 3: Connecting via an existing router

The most reliable and versatile method is to use a home or office router. In this case, both laptops are connected to the same Wi-Fi network, and data exchange occurs over the local network. The advantages of this method:

• 🔹 Stable connection without interruptions.
• 🔹 Support for all protocols (including IPv6).
• 🔹 Possibility to connect additional devices (smartphones, printers).

How to set up:

1. Connect both laptops to the same Wi-Fi network of the router.
2. Open Control Panel → Network and Internet → Network and Sharing Center.
3. In the section Additional sharing options turn on:
   • Network discovery;
   • File and printer sharing;
   • Automatic configuration on network devices.

Assign static IP addresses to your laptops within the same range (e.g. 192.168.1.100 And 192.168.1.101).

To make file sharing easier, create a shared folder:

1. Right-click on the folder → Properties → Access.
2. Click Share and select a user All.
3. Set the resolution Reading and writing.

⚠️ Attention: If the laptops do not see each other on the network, check that the mode is disabled in the router settings AP Isolation (Client Isolation). This feature blocks communication between devices on the local network and is often enabled by default in public access points (e.g., in hotels).

5. Configuring IP addresses and checking the connection

For the local network to function correctly, laptops must be on the same subnet. By default, Windows assigns addresses automatically via DHCP, but for stability it is better to set them manually.

How to assign a static IP:

1. Open Control Panel → Network and Internet → Network and Sharing Center → Change adapter settings.
2. Right click on Wireless connection → Properties.
3. Select Internet Protocol version 4 (TCP/IPv4) → Properties.
4. Please specify:
   • IP address: 192.168.1.100 (for the first laptop) / 192.168.1.101 (for the second);
   • Subnet mask: 255.255.255.0;
   • Default gateway: 192.168.1.1 (if a router is used).

To check the connection, use the command ping:

1. On the first laptop, open Command line.
2. Enter:

   ping 192.168.1.101

   (Where 192.168.1.101 — IP of the second laptop).

3. If the answers come without losses (Reply from 192.168.1.101...), the connection is established.
What to do if ping doesn't work?

If the team ping It says "Timeout exceeded", check:

1. Windows Firewall: Disable it temporarily or add an exception for the ICMP protocol.

2. Antivirus: programs like Kaspersky or Avast may block network requests.

3. Adapter settings: V Properties → TCP/IPv4 Make sure the IP addresses are on the same subnet.

4. Drivers: Update your Wi-Fi adapter driver via device Manager.

6. Speed ​​optimization and troubleshooting

Data transfer speed on a local Wi-Fi network depends on many factors: the adapter standard, the selected channel, the distance between devices, and even interference from other networks. Here's how to improve performance:

Optimization tips:

• 📶 Use range 5 GHz (if adapters support 802.11ac/ax) - it is less loaded and provides speeds of up to 1 Gbps.
• 🔄 Change the Wi-Fi channel in your router or SoftAP settings: for 2.4 GHz, select channels 1, 6, or 11 (they do not overlap).
• 🖥️ Disable background programs that consume traffic (torrents, cloud synchronization).
• 🔌 If you use Ad-Hoc, reduce the distance between laptops to 3-5 meters - this mode is sensitive to interference.

Common mistakes and their solutions:

• 🚫 Failed to connect to the network: Check that the mode is enabled on both laptops Network discovery (Settings → Network → Sharing options).
• 🔌 Limited connection: reset TCP/IP settings with the command:

  netsh int ip reset

• 🔄 No access to shared folder: Make sure the user is enabled on the target laptop Guest or add a specific user to the folder permissions.

7. Alternative file sharing programs

If setting up a local network seems complicated, you can use specialized utilities. They automate the process and often offer additional features (encryption, data compression, and transfer resumption).

Top 3 Wi-Fi File Sharing Apps:

For use LocalSend:

1. Download the program from the official website localsend.org.
2. Install on both laptops.
3. Select the recipient device from the list and send the file.

⚠️ Warning: When transmitting confidential data through programs like Feem or Snapdrop Make sure that the connection is made directly (P2P), and not through cloud servers. LocalSend This is guaranteed by default.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about network setup

Is it possible to connect MacOS and Windows laptops via Wi-Fi?

Yes, but it is better to use the mode for this SoftAP (access point) or connection via a router. macOS open System Preferences → Sharing → Internet Sharing and select Wi-Fi as a source. On your Windows laptop, connect to the created access point as a regular network.

Use the protocol to exchange files SMB (V macOS turn it on System Preferences → Sharing → Files & Folders).

Why is file transfer speed slower than Wi-Fi speed?

Wi-Fi speed (e.g. 300 Mbps) is theoretical maximum To connect to the internet. When transferring files over a local network, the actual speed depends on:

• Protocol (SMB 1.0 gives ~10 MB/s, SMB 3.0 – up to 100 MB/s).
• Hard drive type (HDD limits speed to 50-60 MB/s).
• Processor load (on-the-fly data encryption reduces speed).

To speed up the transfer, connect your laptops to the router via cable (if possible) or use an external SSD drive that supports it. USB 3.2.

How to protect your local Wi-Fi network from outsiders?

If you are creating a network via SoftAP or Ad-Hoc, use:

• Complex password (at least 12 characters with numbers and special characters).
• Hiding the SSID (in the access point settings, disable network name broadcasting).
• Filtering by MAC addresses (in the router or via netsh wlan set hostednetwork with parameter macfilter=enable).

For added security, disable folder sharing when you're finished.

Is it possible to play over a local Wi-Fi network without lag?

Yes, but with some reservations:

• For shooters (CS2, Valorant) use SoftAP or a router with support QoS (traffic prioritization).
• In MMORPG (World of Warcraft) enough and Ad-Hoc, but the ping can reach 30-50 ms.
• To minimize lag, disable power saving on your Wi-Fi adapter. Device Manager.

The optimal option for gamers is a wired connection or Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) with a channel width of 160 MHz.

What to do if laptops can't see each other on the network?

The problem is usually related to network or firewall settings. Check:

1. That both devices are on the same subnet (for example, 192.168.1.x).
2. What's in Network and Control Center network type is set as Private, and not Public.
3. What is the service? Publishing Function Discovery Resources launched (check in services.msc).

If the problem persists, temporarily disable your antivirus and firewall, then try again.