Transferring files from one PC to another using a LAN cable in Windows 11 is a straightforward process that involves connecting both computers, configuring network settings, and then sharing the desired files. By following a few simple steps, you can move your files quickly and efficiently without needing any extra software.
How to Transfer Files from PC to PC using LAN Cable in Windows 11
This guide will show you how to connect two PCs using a LAN cable and transfer files between them. It’s a great way to move large files without relying on external drives or cloud storage.
Step 1: Connect the PCs with a LAN Cable
Plug one end of the LAN cable into the Ethernet port of the first PC and the other end into the Ethernet port of the second PC.
By physically connecting the two computers, you’re creating a direct link that allows for fast and secure file transfers. This step is crucial as it establishes the network connection needed for the following steps.
Step 2: Configure Network Settings on the First PC
Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Ethernet > Change adapter options. Right-click on the Ethernet connection and select Properties. Set the IP address to 192.168.0.1.
Configuring the network settings ensures that both PCs can communicate with each other. The IP address you set is a unique identifier that enables data transfer.
Step 3: Configure Network Settings on the Second PC
Follow the same path as in step 2 but set the IP address to 192.168.0.2.
Both PCs need to have different IP addresses within the same range to communicate. This step mirrors the process on the first PC, ensuring both are on the same network.
Step 4: Enable File Sharing on Both PCs
Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > Advanced sharing settings. Turn on network discovery and file sharing.
Enabling file sharing allows the computers to access each other’s files. This step is essential for making sure that the files you want to transfer can be seen and accessed by the other PC.
Step 5: Share the Folder on the First PC
Right-click the folder you want to share, select Properties, then the Sharing tab. Click Share and choose Everyone from the list.
Sharing a folder is the final step to make its contents available to the other PC. This setup makes the folder accessible to users within the network.
Step 6: Access the Shared Folder on the Second PC
Open File Explorer, go to Network, and find the first PC’s name. Open it and access the shared folder.
By navigating to the shared folder, you can now copy files from the first PC to the second. This step completes the file transfer process.
Once these steps are completed, you can instantly start transferring files between the two PCs by simply dragging and dropping them into the shared folder. It’s a quick and reliable method for moving large amounts of data without interruptions.
Tips for Transferring Files from PC to PC using LAN Cable in Windows 11
- Make sure both PCs are on the same workgroup for easier discovery.
- Disable any firewall temporarily if you face connectivity issues.
- Use a high-quality LAN cable to avoid connection drops.
- Keep both PCs close to each other to avoid cable tangling.
- Ensure both PCs are running the latest network drivers for optimal performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any LAN cable for this process?
Yes, but a Cat5e or higher cable is recommended for faster transfer speeds.
What if the PCs do not recognize each other?
Double-check the IP settings and ensure both PCs are on the same network and workgroup.
Is it safe to disable the firewall?
Temporarily disabling the firewall can help with connection issues but remember to re-enable it afterward for security.
Can I transfer files if one PC is running a different version of Windows?
Yes, the process works as long as both PCs are properly networked and file sharing is enabled.
What should I do if the transfer speed is slow?
Ensure you’re using a high-quality LAN cable and that both PCs have gigabit Ethernet ports for the best speeds.
Summary
- Connect the PCs with a LAN cable.
- Configure network settings on the first PC.
- Configure network settings on the second PC.
- Enable file sharing on both PCs.
- Share the folder on the first PC.
- Access the shared folder on the second PC.
Conclusion
Transferring files from PC to PC using a LAN cable in Windows 11 is a reliable way to move large amounts of data quickly and securely. By following the outlined steps, you establish a direct network connection, enabling fast file transfers without the need for third-party software or external drives.
This method is especially useful for those who need to transfer high-volume files or folders, like multimedia content or extensive project files. It’s like having a private highway between your computers, free of traffic and delays.
If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring other ways to optimize your Windows 11 experience. There are many tools and tips available to make your computing tasks easier and more efficient. Happy transferring!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.