Transfer files between computers It's no longer a puzzle: today you have fast-track solutions via cable, WiFi, and local or cloud services that adapt to each case.
In this guide you will find all the methods that work best on Windows, macOS, and Linux: from nearby sharing, SMB folders, FTP, network drives, or a NAS, to third-party apps, Bluetooth, and PC-to-mobile options. We include steps, safety tips, and troubleshooting.
Share over Wi-Fi in Windows 10/11 with Nearby Sharing
Microsoft's native feature allows send files between nearby PCs Wireless. Activate it by going to Start → Settings → System → Shared Experiences and turning on Nearby Sharing, choosing "Anyone nearby" or "Only my devices" as appropriate.
With the function active, simply Right click on the file → Share to display nearby compatible devices. Select the destination computer; a prompt will appear in the lower right corner of that computer to accept. The transfer is quick and depends on the file size.
Keep in mind that you can change the receiving folder on that same Shared Experiences screen. By default, it's usually Downloads in your user folder (C:\Users\YourUser\Downloads).
SMB Shared Folders: Your local network as a “mailbox”
Shared folders are ideal in offices, classrooms or homes where PCs connect to the same network regularly. Any authorized computer can leave files without asking permission each time.
In Windows, open Folder Properties → Sharing tab → Advanced sharing. Check "Share this folder," assign a share name, and adjust the permissions. You can add specific users or enable "Everyone" if you trust the local network.
From another PC on the network, access the network via Explorer or type the UNC path: \\TeamName\\ResourceName. Remember that if you grant access to "Everyone", any device on that WiFi/LAN will see the folder, so assess the risks if there are guests.
Connect network and FTP drives as if they were a disk
Windows allows you to map SMB resources and FTP sites to browse as on a local disk. Right-click on "This PC" → "Map a network drive" and the wizard will guide you: choose a letter and enter the path \\IP\\Folder for SMB.
If you want to set up an FTP site, in that window click the link «Connect to a website to use as a storage» and enter the address ftp://server. This way, you'll be able to access your network or FTP folders without any complications.
Cloud Sharing: When It Pays Off and What to Know About It
Clouds make it easier synchronized folders and links for sharing without relying on a LAN. Useful when devices aren't on the same network or you need mobile access.
- Google Drive: Integrated with Google account; easy for collaborative work.
- Microsoft OneDrive: Good choice in Windows environments; solid for productivity.
- Dropbox: Highly polished, focus on timing; higher payment plans.
- Box: Clear and powerful interface; notable in businesses.
- Amazon Drive (depending on regional availability): alternative for users of the Amazon ecosystem.
- iCloud: Convenient if you use macOS/iOS; also works on Windows with its app.
If you are looking for other alternatives, check out FileCloud, Tresorit, TeamDrive, ownCloud or FilesAnywhere, with different levels of control and encryption.
Third-party programs: when you want to go straight to the point
Any Send
Available for Windows, macOS, Android and iOS, it allows send files over WiFi Without any configuration. You copy the files to the app, choose the device, and that's it: uploading depends on your network speed.
EaseUS All PCTrans
A migration suite for Windows that moves files, apps and accounts from one PC to another, even over Wi-Fi. This is useful if you're looking to transfer programs (Office, Adobe, etc.) as well as data.
License models (reference 2023): monthly subscription €49,95 (sometimes with -10% for new users), annual €59,95 y lifetime license €69,95, usually for two computers with updates included depending on the plan.
The free edition EaseUS All PCTrans Free allows you to test with up to 2 GB and five programs. Very practical for transfer apps and profiles when changing equipment or moving them to another disk.
Winpinator / Warpinator
Open source tool for exchange files on the same network Automatically detecting devices. Warpinator was born on Linux, and Winpinator brings the concept to Windows—ideal if you share a Steam Deck (Linux) and a PC (Windows).
You just have to install, define the group code and let it detect the devices; the interface is clear. It's currently translated into English and Polish.
Lightweight servers on your network: HTTP and FTP
Miniweb HTTP Server
If you need an express route, Miniweb creates one for you. local HTTP server In seconds. Download the ZIP file, unzip it, and inside you'll see the executable and the htdocs folder.
Rename the index.html file if you want and copy to htdocs what you want to share. Run miniweb.exe: in the window you will see your IP and the default port 8000. From another device enter http://IP:8000 to browse and download the content.
FTP Server with FileZilla
For mixed Windows/macOS/Linux environments, mount a FTP with FileZilla Server It's simple and free. Define users and permissions for folders; on the other hand, use FileZilla Client or any FTP client to connect.
NAS: Your always-on private cloud
A NAS is like a network drive with apps that centralizes backups, sharing, and remote access. Brands like Synology offer apps for Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, Windows, and even Smart TVs.
Although it involves an initial investment, it can offset cloud fees: for example, paying €24 per year for 100 GB for several years can exceed the cost of a NAS with available terabytes without monthly fees.
Share over LAN (Ethernet) in Windows 10/11
If you connect the PCs by cable, you will get 1 Gbps or more with appropriate cables and ports (Cat5e or higher). Make sure the cable and connectors are in good condition.
Turn on sharing: Network and Sharing Center → Change advanced sharing settings → Under Private, turn on Network Discovery and File and Printer Sharing. Under All Networks, use 128-bit encryption.
On the Ethernet adapter, check TCP/IPv4 in Properties and leave Obtain IP automatically If there is a router (DHCP). If you connect two PCs directly without a router, assign compatible manual IP addresses (e.g., 192.168.1.1 and 192.168.1.2, mask 255.255.255.0).
To share content, create a folder, right click → «Grant access to» → «Specific users», and assign permissions (read or read/write) as needed.
Advantages of using LAN
By cable you get higher stable speed for large files that are stored in the cloud or Bluetooth, something key in offices or when migrating large libraries.
You also reduce exposure: the exchange stays within your network, without going through third parties, and you can control permissions and visibility.
In addition, it facilitates internal backups between computers and helps free up space by moving files to another PC with more capacity.
Risks and disadvantages of online sharing
Sharing carries risks if you don't set limits: there may be improper access or plagiarism in multi-user environments.
You need a network with sufficient bandwidth; otherwise, the transfer will be slow, worse than a flash drive.
If security is weak, there is risk of exposure public or WiFi attacks. Strengthen passwords and private profiles.
Shared files can become infected with malware If any equipment is compromised, keep antivirus and patches up.
Clear benefits for companies
LAN sharing improves the simultaneous collaboration over frictionless shared resources.
Reduce time and costs by avoiding redundant shipments and external supports, centralizing access.
Improves internal security with permissions and controls on the corporate network.
increase productivity and organization by centralizing data and streamlining flows.
Between systems: Windows, macOS, Linux and mobile
Windows ↔ Android
Use "Your Phone/Mobile Link" for photos and messages, AirDroid via web for access to the telephone or Nearby Share for Windows (official Google app) to send between Android and PC.
Clouds (Drive, OneDrive) also work and send messages to yourself via WhatsApp/Telegram as a “bridge”.
Windows ↔ iPhone
Connect by cable (better with iTunes installed) to manage content and copies. For wireless, use clouds or snapdrop on the same WiFi from the browser.
Android ↔ iPhone
Since there is no AirDrop between platforms, rely on snapdrop, clouds and third-party apps, as well as messages to yourself for lightweight files.
Windows ↔ macOS
Active SMB on macOS (Preferences → Sharing → File Sharing → Options) and access it from Windows via \\IP\\Folder. You can also use exFAT flash drives for full compatibility.
macOS ↔ Android
Install Android File Transfer or the project OpenMTP (open source) for MTP. For wireless sending, Snapdrop and clouds work very well.
Within the Apple ecosystem
Between iPhone, iPad and Mac, AirDrop It's faster and easier; iCloud adds seamless syncing across devices.
Android ↔ Android
The option "Share with Nearby» is integrated; you can also send between devices with the same account or use cloud and messaging.
Linux
With KDE Connect you link the mobile (Android/iOS) for files and notifications; with Samba you share folders to any SMB compatible system.
Connecting two computers to a network: requirements and choosing between cable and WiFi
You need active network cards (Ethernet or WiFi), IPs in the same segment (via router DHCP or manual), and discovery/sharing enabled. With a straight cable, Cat5e or better is best; with Wi-Fi, be sure to use modern bands (5 GHz if possible).
Cable or WiFi? Cable offers speed and stability constant speeds (1 Gbps or more), lower latency, and greater security; WiFi offers mobility and zero cables, but is susceptible to interference and congestion.
Connection methods: direct, with router or ad-hoc
Direct connection via Ethernet (peer-to-peer), through router or switch for multiple computers, or ad-hoc network/hotspot sharing if there is no infrastructure.
For an ad-hoc network in Windows, go to Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile wireless coverage area, define a name/password, and connect the other PC. Optimize using the 5 GHz band and a less congested channel.
Configure network settings on Windows and macOS
In Windows: Control Panel → Network Center → Change adapter settings → Ethernet/WiFi Properties → TCP/IPv4. Set manual IP if no DHCP is available (e.g., 192.168.1.10; mask 255.255.255.0). Enable Network Discovery and Sharing in Sharing Options.
On macOS: System Preferences → Network → Ethernet/WiFi → Configure Manual IPv4 to assign IP addresses. Under Sharing, turn on Share files, add folders and permissions; enable SMB if you're connecting to Windows.
Check connectivity with ping: On Windows (cmd) “ping 192.168.1.X”; on macOS (Terminal) idem. If it responds, there is a route. Use tracert/traceroute to diagnose hops if it fails.
Sharing printers and other devices
In Windows: Settings → Devices → Printers → your printer → Manage → Properties → Sharing tab → Share this printer. On the other PC, “Add printer” and select the shared one or enter \\IP\\Name.
Using macOS: Preferences → Sharing → Share printerOn another Mac, add it from Printers & Scanners. To share with Windows, enable SMB in Options.
You can also share external drives connected to a computer, adding them to File Sharing as if they were folders.
Remove password authentication (optional and risky)
On controlled home networks you could disable the password-protected sharing (Windows: Network Center → Advanced Sharing → All Networks), but any computer in the segment could join, so avoid doing so on public networks or with guests.
Troubleshooting: Destination PC not showing up
Check in Windows 10/11 that they are activated Network discovery y file sharing in the Private network profile. On macOS, make sure the File Sharing service is active.
Check your firewall: On Windows, allow File and Printer Sharing, Network Discovery, and SMB ports (135, 137, 138, 139, and 445) on private networks. On macOS, allow File Sharing and signed apps.
If the computer name does not resolve, enter by IP: in Windows type \\ 192.168.1.15 in Explorer; on Mac use Finder → Go to Server and type smb://192.168.1.15.
If you are using shared folders and cannot write, check permits of the resource (change/full control). If you're using Nearby Sharing and the computer doesn't exit, make sure that option is enabled on the other PC.
Other useful methods: WeTransfer, email, USB and Bluetooth
Services like WeTransfer or Smash They allow you to upload and share temporary links (useful outside your network). You can also attach them by email if they're small.
A pendrive remains the "wildcard": format it in exFAT if you're going to move between Windows and macOS for maximum compatibility.
Via Bluetooth, on Windows: right click on the file → Send to → Bluetooth device, select the destination PC and accept it on the receiver; ideal for small files and nearby computers.
There are USB transfer cables (with bridge chip) that create a direct link between two PCs and they come with software to drag and drop between both windows.
After transferring: Clean the old equipment and protect the new one
Before recycling or giving away, use the function Resetting (Windows 10/11) and choose Local Reinstall or Cloud Download to erase and reinstall your system.
Activate a Backup on the new PC: with a cloud (e.g., Dropbox Backup/OneDrive) or with your NAS/external drive for versioning and disaster recovery.
With all these options, you can choose the fastest and safest route according to your scenario: by proximity (proximity), by stability (LAN), for flexibility (cloud) or with specific tools (FTP, NAS, apps). Configure permissions properly, keep the firewall active, and don't hesitate to use the direct IP address when the name doesn't resolve; that way, transfers between computers will go like a charm.