Transferring files from one PC to another over WiFi in Windows 11 sounds straightforward, but there are a few quirks that trip people up. If you’ve ever tried to just share a folder and it doesn’t show up on the second machine, you’re not alone. Sometimes Windows makes it harder than it needs to be, especially if network discovery or sharing isn’t enabled properly.
How to Transfer Files from PC to PC Using WiFi in Windows 11
Basically, you need both computers connected to the same WiFi network and set up sharing. Then, accessing shared folders becomes a matter of navigating through Network in File Explorer. Not super complicated, but you’ll want to get a few things right first. Here’s what generally works:
Step 1: Connect Both PCs to the Same WiFi Network
This might seem obvious, but double-checking never hurts. Click on the WiFi icon in your taskbar, then verify they’re both on the same SSID (network name). Because of course, Windows has to make it a bit confusing with multiple networks sometimes. If they’re on different networks, sharing won’t work.
Note: On some setups, you might need to switch to a Private network profile in Settings > Network & Internet for sharing to be enabled properly.
Step 2: Enable Network Sharing on the Source PC
Go into Settings > Network & Internet. Then, find Advanced network settings and click. Look for Advanced sharing settings. Here, turn on Network discovery and File and printer sharing. This is what lets your PC see others and vice versa. If you’re paranoid about security, just make sure only the right people are allowed to access the shared folder.
On some machines, this setting isn’t enabled by default, especially if you just installed Windows recently. Also, check if your firewall isn’t blocking file sharing—sometimes Windows Defender Firewall needs to be configured to allow file and printer sharing.
Step 3: Share the Folder Containing the Files
Right-click on that folder you want to share, select Properties, then head to Sharing. Hit Share. You can pick specific users or just allow Everyone on the network—whatever feels safer. Also, if you want more control, click Advanced Sharing. Check Share this folder and set permissions like read/write as needed. If you’re using SMB v1 or v2, make sure those are enabled under Optional Features—sometimes Windows disables them for security reasons, which can block sharing.
Tip: For quick access, you can also map the shared folder as a network drive via Map network drive in File Explorer.
Step 4: Access the Shared Folder on the Second PC
Open up File Explorer, then go to Network. If you don’t see the first PC there, check Network discovery and sharing settings again—sometimes a reboot helps. You might also need to type in the network path manually, like \ or \FirstPCName\SharedFolder. On some setups, Windows updates have been known to cause network browsing hiccups, so don’t get discouraged if it’s not showing right away. You can also try accessing via the run dialog (Win + R) with the path.
Step 5: Copy the Files to the Second PC
Once you see the shared folder, simply right-click, pick Copy on the files you want, then navigate to your local folder and hit Paste. Easy. The transfer speed depends on your WiFi strength, so don’t expect a giant file to fly over if you’re miles away from your router. Sometimes, a wired connection or a better WiFi channel helps, but that’s another story.
It’s kind of weird, but on some setups, you might need to restart both PCs or restart the network services (like net stop lanmanserver && net start lanmanserver in Command Prompt) if things just aren’t showing up properly.
Tips for Transferring Files from PC to PC Using WiFi in Windows 11
- Make sure firewalls aren’t blocking your network discovery or file sharing. Sometimes you gotta go into Windows Security > Firewall > Allow an app and turn on File and Printer Sharing.
- Keep Windows updated — newer updates tend to fix bugs that mess with network sharing.
- If the files are huge, consider compressing them into a ZIP archive; it can sometimes speed things up or reduce network strain.
- Stay close to the router if you’re transferring big chunks of data. Signal quality matters.
- Check sharing permissions if you run into errors—sometimes Windows defaults to more restrictive settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make sure both PCs are on the same network?
Compare the SSID listed in your WiFi settings on both machines. Both should match exactly. If you see different names, check your router’s settings or WiFi network list.
What if I don’t see the other PC in Network?
Verify network discovery and sharing are enabled on both. Also, make sure both PCs are set to Private network. Sometimes switching the network profile makes a difference.
Is it safe to share files over WiFi?
If sharing permissions are locked down to trusted users and your network has a strong password, then yes. Just avoid sharing sensitive data unless you’ve got encrypted connections or VPNs in place.
Can this work for transferring files to a Mac?
Not directly. Windows sharing doesn’t natively share to macOS like that. For Mac transfers, SMB with specific settings or AirDrop on Apple devices might be better options. Otherwise, setting up Samba or using third-party apps helps.
What if the files are huge and it takes forever?
Try compressing large files into a ZIP, or split them into smaller chunks. Also, check your WiFi signal strength—interference or distance kills transfer speed.
Summary
- Both PCs need to be on the same WiFi network.
- Enable network discovery and sharing.
- Share the folder you wanna copy from.
- Access it via Network on the second PC.
- Copy and paste the files locally.
Hope this shaves off a few hours for someone. If this gets one update moving, mission accomplished.