5 Ways to Transfer Files Between Computers on Same Network

How can I transfer files between computers on same network? You are going to the right place! Here in this post, we will offer a step-by-step tutorial to transfer files between devices on the same network in five different ways.

Hester

By Hester / Updated on May 11, 2024

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Can I transfer files from one computer to another on the same network?

 

I have a PC and a laptop, but they are far from each other, how can I transfer files efficiently between them if I have them connected to the same router (not directly together)?”

- Question from Tom's Hardware

Fastest File Transfer Software

How to transfer files between computers on same network [5 methods]

Do you want to share files between computers on your home network? File sharing from PC to PCis a relatively easy issue but also sticks unclear in someone’s mind. This post will show you how to transfer files between computers on same network.

Here's a short comparison of the following five methods you're about to know:

Method Speed Security Ease of Use Network Requirement Additional Features
AnyViewer Fast Advanced (ECC, 2FA) Easy Same/Different Remote control/Screen sharing/Mobile access
Nearby Sharing Moderate Standard Easy Same No
Network Share Moderate Standard Moderate Same No
Cloud (OneDrive) Moderate Dependent on Cloud Provider Easy Same File storage
External Storage Slow Dependent on Physical Security Easy Same/Different No

Method 1. Transfer files on same/different network via AnyViewer [Fastest]

The best available solution for file sharing between Windows computers is turning to a professional file transfer tool like AnyViewer. This software supports sharing multiple files at high speed between devices, whether on the same or different networks.

  • Free service: AnyViewer offers a complimentary service for economical file transfers.
  • Advanced security: Take advantage of advanced security features such as Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) and two-factor authentication to maintain the security of your files.
  • Swift speed: Encounter rapid speeds that facilitate quick batch file transfers, ultimately saving time and optimizing efficiency.

Download AnyViewer on your devices to share files between computers easily.

Download Freeware Win PCs & Servers
Secure Download

Step 1. On the remotecomputer, click Sign up.Complete the information needed.

Log in Anyviewer

Step 2. On the local computer, log in to the same account, and it will automatically be assignedto the account.

Free Editions

Step 3. Go toDevice, select the remote computer you want to share files with, and clickFile transfer.

File Transfer Anyviewer

Step 4. A File Transferwindow will appear then. The host PC is displayed on the left, while the client PC is on the right. To send the selected files to the client PC, click the right arrow and vice versa.

Choose Files

★Tips:
For heightened file transfer requirements, it is advisable to upgrade to a professional or enterprise plan to access additional privileges:
Maximum file transfer speed: 10 MB/s
Utilize 5 threads for file transfer
No limit on the number of files transferred simultaneously
Maximum size of a single file: 1 TB

Method 2. Transfer files on same network through Nearby Sharing

Microsoft introduces Nearby Sharing. It allows users to share files between computers on same network conveniently. But it only works on Windows 10/11. Follow the steps below to seehow to share files between computers on same network via Nearby Sharing:

Step 1. You need to enable Nearby Sharing on all the computers you want to share files with. To do this: Open Settings, click System > Shared Experirences, and turn on Nearby sharing.

Transfer Files via Nearby Sharing Windows 10

Step 2. Select the sharing pattern based on your demand from the drop-down menu. (You can click Change to choose the location where to keep the received files.)

Nearby Sharing Pattern

Step 3. On the source computer, locate and right-click the file, and click Share.

Share Files

Step 4. Select the remote computer you want to transfer the file.

Select Target Device

Step 5. A notification will appear on the remote computer. Click Save & Open or Save to initiate the file transfer.

Notification

Method 3. Share files on same network via Network Share

Microsoft Windows also offers the built-in tool Network Share that enables users to share files between Windows computers. Here are the steps to apply it:

Step 1. Open Network and Sharing Center on the source computer, and click Change advanced sharing settings.

Change Advanced Sharing Settings

Step 2. Tick the boxes below and click Save changes.

Check Advanced Sharing Settings

Step 3. Right-click the file you want to transfer, hover on Give access, and select Specific people.

Select Specific People

Step 4. Choose Everyonefrom the expanded menu, and click click Add to confirm.

Choose People to Share With

Step 5. Select Everyone and setpermissions to Read/Write, then click Share to confirm.

File Permission Level

Step 6. Now you can copy the shared link and paste it on another device.

Network Access Location

Method 4. Upload/download files between devices via the cloud services

Another approach you can take to transfer files between computers on same network is via the cloud services. You can share the file to any Windows app that supports services like OneDrive or Google Drive.

Cloud services enable users to access their files from anywhere with an internet connection, offering flexibility and convenience.However, users should carefully consider their security and privacy needs when entrusting their data to cloud service providers.

Here we will take OneDrive as an example to show you how to send files to another computer on same network via cloud services.

Step 1. On the resource computer, search OneDrive from the start menu.

Open Onedrive

Step 2. Click Create accountfor account registration. If you have one, enter your email address and click Sign in.

Set Up Onedrive

Step 3. In your OneDrive folder, right-click the file you want to share, and select Share a OneDrive link.

Share a OneDrive Link

Step 4. Now you can open the link on another computer to get the shared file.

Method 5. Copy files between devices via external storage device

If your network is unstable, you can transfer files offline by manually copying files via an external storage device.

Step 1. Prepare a big enough external hard drive or USB drive, and connect it to the source computer.

External Hard Drive

Step 2. Select the files you want to transfer, and copy and paste them to the drive.

Copy Files

Step 3. Connect the drive to another computer, and open it to access the files.

Conclusion

 

In short, there are many ways to transfer files between computers on same network. You can use different tools like AnyViewer, Nearby Sharing, or Network Share, each with its own benefits. If you prefer, you can also use cloud services like OneDrive or simply copy files to an external device like a USB drive. Just pick the way that works best for you based on things like how fast you need it to be, how secure, and how stable your network is. With these options, sharing files between your computers can be easy and convenient.