Networking two computers in Windows 11 is a handy way to share files, folders, printers, or even play local games. Whether it’s for work, school, or home use, setting up a small network doesn’t require advanced technical skills.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to network two Windows 11 computers, including both wired and wireless methods.
Why Network Two Computers in Windows 11?
There are several reasons you might want to network two PCs:
-
File sharing → Transfer documents without using external drives.
-
Printer sharing → Use one printer across both computers.
-
Collaboration → Work on shared projects or access resources remotely.
-
Gaming → Play LAN games between the two PCs.
Before You Start: Requirements
Before networking two computers, make sure:
-
Both computers are running Windows 11.
-
Both are connected to the same network (Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
-
You have administrator access on both PCs.
-
File and printer sharing is enabled.
Method 1: Network Two Computers Using Ethernet Cable
This is the fastest way to create a direct connection.
Steps:
-
Connect the PCs with an Ethernet cable
-
Use a standard Ethernet cable (CAT5e or higher).
-
Plug one end into each computer’s Ethernet port.
-
-
Set IP addresses manually
-
Press Win + I → Network & internet → Ethernet → Change adapter options.
-
Right-click the Ethernet adapter → Properties → Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) → Properties.
-
Set static IPs:
-
PC 1 → IP:
192.168.1.1, Subnet:255.255.255.0 -
PC 2 → IP:
192.168.1.2, Subnet:255.255.255.0
-
-
-
Enable File and Printer Sharing
-
Go to Control Panel → Network and Sharing Center → Advanced sharing settings.
-
Turn on Network Discovery and File and Printer Sharing.
-
-
Access shared folders
-
On PC 1, right-click a folder → Properties → Sharing → Share.
-
On PC 2, open File Explorer → Network → PC 1 → Access shared folder.
-
Method 2: Network Two Computers Using Wi-Fi
If you prefer wireless networking:
Steps:
-
Connect both PCs to the same Wi-Fi network.
-
Enable Private Network
-
Go to Settings → Network & Internet → Wi-Fi → Properties → Network profile → Private.
-
-
Enable File and Printer Sharing
-
Open Control Panel → Network and Sharing Center → Advanced sharing settings → Turn on network discovery and file sharing.
-
-
Share a folder
-
Right-click the folder → Properties → Sharing → Share → Choose users.
-
-
Access the shared folder
-
Open File Explorer → Network → [Other PC] → Access shared folder.
-
Method 3: Use HomeGroup Alternative
Windows 11 removed HomeGroup, but you can still share via Microsoft accounts or local network sharing.
Steps:
-
Sign in to both PCs with the same Microsoft account (optional).
-
Enable sharing for your libraries
-
Right-click folders → Properties → Sharing → Advanced Sharing → Share this folder.
-
-
Access files via File Explorer → Network → Other PC.
Method 4: Troubleshooting Network Issues
If the PCs aren’t connecting:
-
✅ Make sure both PCs are on the same network type (Private).
-
✅ Turn off firewall temporarily to test connectivity.
-
✅ Check IP addresses for Ethernet connections.
-
✅ Restart Windows Explorer or both PCs.
Pros and Cons of Networking Two Computers
✅ Pros
-
Easy file and printer sharing.
-
Saves time over USB drives.
-
Enables LAN gaming.
❌ Cons
-
Security risk if network isn’t private.
-
Can be tricky with IP conflicts.
-
Wireless connections may be slower than wired.
Conclusion
Networking two computers in Windows 11 is not complicated. Whether you use Ethernet for speed or Wi-Fi for convenience, you can share files, printers, and resources efficiently.
Just remember to:
-
Enable network discovery and file sharing.
-
Set proper IP addresses if using Ethernet.
-
Keep the network private for security.
Once set up, you’ll enjoy seamless file transfer and collaboration between your PCs.
FAQs
1. Can I network two computers without a router?
Yes, with a direct Ethernet cable or ad-hoc Wi-Fi network.
2. Do both PCs need the same version of Windows 11?
No, but both must support file sharing features.
3. Can I share printers without networking?
No, printers need a shared network or direct connection.
4. Is Wi-Fi or Ethernet better for networking two PCs?
Ethernet is faster and more stable; Wi-Fi is more convenient.
5. Can I network more than two computers the same way?
Yes, you can expand to a small LAN or use a router to connect multiple PCs.