How to Share Files Between Computers [2024 Tutorial]

Roxanne updated on Jun 24, 2024 to PC Transfer | How-to Articles

Learn how to share files between computers quickly and easily with our step-by-step guide. Discover the best methods for file sharing, including the tools, cloud storage, network transfer, and more.

Sharing files between computers has become essential in our interconnected digital world. Knowing how to share files between computers is vital for work collaboration, media transfer, or data syncing across devices.

EaseUS will explore a few practical methods and tools that facilitate seamless file sharing between computers, which covers various file-sharing techniques, step-by-step guides, and expert recommendations for software solutions that enable smooth communication between devices.

How to Share Files Between Computers?

Several methods are available for sharing files between computers, and we'll explore six of them in detail. These methods range from fast and efficient transfers to secure and collaborative sharing solutions, each with unique advantages and ideal use cases.

Way 1. Best Data Transfer Tool - EaseUS Todo PCTrans

Want to share files between computers without the headache? Consider using EaseUS Todo PCTrans Free. It is a robust and user-friendly tool that lets you move programs, settings, and everything between computers and hard drives. No more compatibility worries or lost data – EaseUS Todo PCTrans makes file sharing a breeze!

Follow the steps:

Step 1. Open EaseUS Todo PCTrans on both of your computers. Choose "PC to PC" to go to the next step.

Step 2. Make sure you have chosen the right transfer direction.

"New" - Move data from old computer to current new computer.

"Old" - Move data from current old n computer to remote new computer.

Step 3. Connect two PCs via the network by entering the password or verification code of the target PC. Besides, make sure you have chosen the right transfer direction and click "Connect" to continue.

The verification code is on the right top of the "PC to PC" main screen on the target computer.

Step 4. Then, choose "Files" to select files to transfer. Select the specific files as you want. What's more, you can click the Edit icon to customize the storage path for transferred data.

Step 5. Now, click "Transfer" to begin to transfer files from PC to PC. The size of the file determines the transfer time. Wait patiently.

Features of EaseUS Todo PCTrans:

Download EaseUS Todo PCTrans for a smooth and efficient file-sharing experience!

Way 2. Windows File Sharing Over the Same Network

If you're connected to the same network, you can share files between computers using Windows File Sharing.

Follow the steps:

Step 1. Go to File Explorer and click "Network" in the left panel.

Step 2. If network discovery is off, you'll get an error. Click OK to close that pop-up.

Step 3. Press"Turn on network discovery and file sharing" at the top of the window. Choose a public network option and enter your administrator password to continue.

Step 4. Right-click the file you want to share and choose "Give access to" > "Specific People."

Step 5. Choose the name of the computer you want to share with from the list.

The shared file or folder will be visible in the "Network" section on the other PC.

Way 3. Transfer Files Using External Storage Media

External storage devices offer a portable, straightforward solution for transferring files, but both PCs must be physically accessible. You'll copy files from PC A to the storage device, then transfer them to PC B.

Follow the steps:

Step 1. Connect the external storage device to a USB port on one computer.

Step 2. Copy the files you want to share to the external storage device.

Step 3. Safely eject the external storage device from the first computer.

Step 4. Connect the external storage device to a USB port on the second computer.

Step 5. Open the external storage device in File Explorer.

Step 6. Copy the files from the external storage device to the second computer's desired location.

Way 4. Share Files via File Explorer

Sharing files between computers on the same network is a breeze with File Explorer's built-in sharing feature. No need to purchase transfer cables or external storage devices or download additional software. Here's how to share files using File Explorer:

Step 1. Open File Explorer, select the files you want to share, right-click, and choose "Properties."

Step 2. In the Properties window, click the "Sharing" tab and click "Share."

Step 3. In the File Sharing window, choose the person to share with, click "Add," and click "Share."

Step 4. A window will pop up with a link to the shared file. You can send this link via email or copy and paste it into another app. Click "Done" to exit.

If the computers are on the same network, others can access the shared files by navigating to File Explorer > This PC and entering the shared link.

Way 5. Share File to Another PC via OneDrive

Microsoft's OneDrive offers a convenient cloud storage solution, enabling effortless transfers of large files. While a free Microsoft account provides 5 GB of storage, upgrading to Microsoft 365 Personal (starting at $69.99/year) provides 1 TB of storage space.

Follow the steps:

Step 1. Upload the file or folder to OneDrive, right-click on it and select "Share."

Step 2. Type the recipient's email address and choose the desired permissions under the "Copy link" option to allow the recipient to edit or view the file and to control who can access it through the shared link.

Step 3. Click "Copy" to get a shareable link for the file stored on OneDrive. Send this link to the recipient via email, granting them access to the shared file or folder.

Click and share this tutorial on social media to save more users' time:

 

Way 6. File Transfer via Direct Cable Connection

You'll need a USB-to-USB bridging cable or USB networking cable to transfer files between two PCs. This cable allows the PCs to communicate with each other.

Follow the steps:

Step 1. Turn on both PCs and Connect the USB cable to both PCs. Wait for the installation wizard to initiate.

Step 2. Choose "USB Super link adapter" and choose "High-Speed Data Bridge" from the "Mode" dropdown.

Step 3. Open the Device Manager and ensure the USB cable is listed under "System Devices" as "Hi-Speed USB Bridge Cable."

Step 4. Install the data transfer software from the provided disk on both PCs.

Step 5. Launch the program on both PCs and select the drive/partition from which you want to transfer files.

Step 6. Drag and drop the files to move them. Disconnect the cable when finished.

Conclusion

Seamlessly transferring files between computers is crucial for collaboration, data management, and everyday tasks. We explored a range of solutions, from the convenience of network sharing and cloud storage to the efficiency of dedicated software like EaseUS Todo PCTrans. Whether you're sharing a few quick documents or migrating entire programs between devices, you now have the knowledge to choose the most appropriate method.

For a hassle-free and comprehensive file-sharing experience, consider trying EaseUS Todo PCTrans. It streamlines the process, eliminates compatibility concerns, and ensures swift and secure data transfers.

FAQs About How to Share Files Between Computers

Do you have more queries about how to share files between computers? Check the FAQs below to find the appropriate answers!

1. How do I send files from one PC to another?

You can use:

  • Email attachments to send files to the other PC.
  • Cloud storage allows users to upload files to Google Drive or OneDrive and share the link.
  • Direct sharing to share files over the same network.

2. Can I transfer files from PC to PC wirelessly?

To transfer files wirelessly, use Windows File Sharing or File Explorer sharing. Alternatively, cloud storage services like OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox offer wireless file transfer capabilities using an internet connection.

3. How do files transfer from PC to PC without USB?

Without a USB, you can transfer files using a network, cloud storage, or wireless file transfer methods.