How to Access Files from Another Computer on the Same Network in Windows 10, 11

Can I access files from one computer to another?

Yes, you can access files from one computer to another. When it comes to accessing files between two computers, especially when they are on the same network, the process can be remarkably straightforward. Leveraging the local network infrastructure provides a fast and efficient way to share files seamlessly.

How to access files from another computer on the same network in Windows 10 and 11 [3 methods]

Explore the top three methods for how to access files from another computer on the same network in Windows 10 and 11. Keep delving into the details!

Method 1. Access files from anywhere via AnyViewer

Regardless of whether the two devices share the same network or are on different networks, you can easily use the free third-party remote file transfer tool, AnyViewer, to get files from another computer in Windows 10 and 11. AnyViewer delivers a smooth on-screen experience with minimal delay and better frame rates, making it feel like you're right in front of the remote device, accessing files and programs with near-instant response.

Step 1. Download, install, and launch AnyViewer 3.0 or above on both Windows computers. If your version is lower, please upgrade first. 

Step 2. On the Controller computer, go to Log in, and then click Sign up. (If you already have signed up on its official website, you can log in directly.)

Step 3. Fill in the signup information.

Step 4. Then you can see you successfully logged in to AnyViewer. Your device will automatically be assigned to the account you’ve logged in to. 

Step 5. Choose your target computer, and then click File Transfer.

Step 6. Then a File Transfer dialog box will appear. You’re able to transfer files between devices freely by clicking the arrows after choosing the target files. You can also double-click the target file to achieve transfer.

Notes:✎...

In addition to faster file transfer speed, here are more of what a professional or enterprise plan can bring to you:

Faster file transfer speed. In a free account, the maximum file transfer speed caps at 500 KB/s, whereas a paid account elevates this to a maximum of 10 MB/s.

Increasing numbers of files are being transferred at once. A free account allows the transfer of up to 100 files simultaneously, whereas the paid counterpart offers an unlimited capacity.

Larger size of a single file that can be transferred. With a free account, the maximum file size is 100 MB, while a paid account extends this limit to a substantial 1 TB.

More assigned devices to achieve file transfer. A free account permits the assignment of only 3 devices, whereas a Professional account grants allocation to 10 devices, and an Enterprise account facilitates control over 100 devices.

Method 2. Access files of other computers with network credentials

The PC that contains the files you want to access should change the network from public to private so that you can find the PC and then access the files. It is important to note that just some files can be accessed with this method.

Step 1. Press Win + R and then enter ”control panel”, hit OK.

Step 2. Locate Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center > Advanced sharing settings.

Step 3. Under the Private option, tick “Turn on network discovery”, and then tick Turn on file and printer sharing under File and printer sharing.

Step 4. Press Win + E to open File Explorer. And in the Navigation pane on the left, click Network.

Step 5. You will see the devices that are connected to the network.

Step 6. Enter the network address for another computer in the address bar with the form “\\computer name”. (Enter “query user” in CMD to find the computer name) Or you can scroll down to find the specific one.

Step 7. Enter the username and password of another PC, and press OK.

Step 8. You will see the "Users" folder and have access to select files. Now you would know how to connect two computers on the same (WiFi) network on Windows 10. 

Method 3. Access shared files via Windows built-in File Sharing

Just as mentioned above, we only can access the "Users" folders in a last way. What if the files we want to reach are not in the Users folder? Don’t worry, we can share the folders in the following method, then we can access specific files. Now follow me to learn how to access shared folders on network Windows 10. 

Step 1. Follow steps 1 to step 3 in Method 2 to change the network to private.

Step 2. Click Win + R and then select Network and Internet, locate Ethernet to find your network, and double-click on the network, such as Network 2.

Step 3. Return to “Settings”, click on Ethernet, and then double-click on the network

Step 4. Scroll down and find your IP address, which will be useful later.

Step 5. Press Win + E to open File Explorer, and then right-click on a folder you want to share. Select Properties.

Step 6. Locate the “Sharing” tab, and click “Share...”

Step 7. Choose Everyone, and then click on “Share”.

Step 8. Now your folder is shared. Click on “Done”.

Step 9. Click on Advanced Sharing....

Step 10. Tick Share this folder and then click on "Permissions".

Step 11. Tick Allow behind Full control and Change. Click on OK.

Step 12. Press Win + R and input the form “\\ipv4 address", like “\\192.168.163.128” in the box on your own PC.

Step 13. Now the shard folder can be accessed.

Conclusion

This post primarily introduces how to access files from another computer on the same network in Windows 10 and 11. The three methods outlined earlier serve as effective means to achieve this goal. Notably, AnyViewer emerges as a highly recommended option due to its user-friendly setup and seamless operation, ensuring the most enjoyable file transfer experience for you.