How Do I Connect Two Computers Without Internet?
There are various methods of connecting two computers without internet, including using USB cables or temporary ad-hoc networks. But for fast and reliable connections, an Ethernet cable may be your best bet.
Install the Feem software on each computer to establish a temporary Ethernet connection. It works like a file manager with two windows: one for each computer (labeled ‘local’ and’remote’) where files may be dragged from remote window into local window to transfer files between machines.
1. Ethernet Cable
For a stable and reliable connection between computers, Ethernet cables offer the perfect solution. Before Wi-Fi became popular, Ethernet was the standard method of linking devices directly. Many modern laptops and computers come equipped with their own Ethernet ports as do PlayStation and Xbox consoles and smart TVs – simply plug one end into each port on each device, with the other end connecting directly into your router.
Or you could opt for an Ethernet hub which enables multiple wired connections at once, costing a bit more but providing greater options when networking more than two computers at the same time. Most hardware and electronics stores carry Ethernet cables; alternatively, you could try searching online.
Ethernet connections tend to be faster and more reliable than their wireless counterparts. Wireless signals may become blocked by walls or objects, leading to speed issues or consistency issues; on the other hand, Ethernet cables don’t suffer distance-related interference and remain consistent even over long runs of cable.
An Ethernet cable can also help connect two systems for file sharing. While this process should be straightforward, it’s essential that both systems and cables are compatible – for instance, your system should support Ethernet while your cables should meet network specifications such as Category 5/6/7a cables rated specifically for their usage.
Once the cables are in place, both systems can create a homegroup. You’re then free to share files by dragging and dropping between computers – simply drag files from one system to the other! For ease of viewing shared files in Windows Explorer right-clicking and selecting Sharing from the menu; this will display all connected computers with Nearby Sharing enabled as shown by a “shared” label on them.
2. USB Cable
USB cables allow computers to share files between each other by linking their USB connectors on both ends. Available at most electronics stores, you’ll find these cables come equipped with software specifically tailored to transferring information between computers that is either included with the cable itself or purchased and downloaded online.
To connect two Windows computers, connect both ends of a USB cable to network adapters on each machine, with one end going directly into a public folder on one. Open your first computer’s Control Panel and click Change Advanced Sharing Settings for options such as Public Folder Sharing that allow other computers on your network accessing files in this folder.
Your other computer should have all the same options selected, allowing you to easily transfer files back and forth. For long-term connections between two computers, consider purchasing a wireless router as this can provide internet access wirelessly throughout your home.
Alternately, an old-fashioned serial cable may also work to connect two systems together. This involves linking a com port on one computer to one on another using a crossover or “null modem” cable which reverses TX and RX wires, followed by installing programs that implement protocols so both systems can communicate – such as terminal emulators such as PuTTY or Getty.
Current technologies make this less of a necessity, but you might still consider this method if your computers don’t play nicely together. USB-to-USB cables with different connectors on each end to match each machine can help – most notably USB Type-C which offers a reversible design and higher speeds than previous standards can be found on most new laptops and smartphones as well as some desktops computers.
3. Bluetooth
One of the easiest ways to connect two computers without internet access is using Bluetooth technology. This short-range wireless technology is built into many devices such as laptops and mobile phones, making connection simple while drawing minimal power usage – perfect for saving battery life while sharing files between systems securely without fear of someone gaining access to your information.
When connecting a wireless device, make sure the Bluetooth radio is active. Enter any applicable codes or manually configure it in order for the computer to recognize it. If your device is having difficulties connecting, refer to its manufacturer for assistance; microwave ovens and cordless phones could interfere with Bluetooth signals and cause it to stop working altogether; so move away from these electronics to see if that helps restore functionality of your signal.
To connect computers using Bluetooth, it is first necessary to install the software and drivers that came with the cable. Installation procedures vary depending on its model and operating system; once all of this has been accomplished, plug one end of the cable into one computer and the other into the second; plug both ends back in; start both programs; select network mode on both systems to create your network; follow any further instructions until created; once complete you can copy files between systems or access printers or the Internet via this new network connection.
This method works on both Windows and Mac OSX computers; however, Mac users will find it easier as no additional software needs to be installed and they have more integrated file sharing options than PC users do for transferring files over USB connections. So if you are using a Mac you may skip this step altogether and move directly on to step two while PC users should still attempt this method via Ethernet connection.
4. Wireless Network
Use of wireless networks allows for maximum flexibility when it comes to moving files between devices. While wired connections remain the best choice in terms of speed and reliability, there are various wireless networking methods you can employ between computers for sharing data wirelessly – these include setting up permanent WiFi network or creating an ad hoc wireless network, or Bluetoothing two devices together – but all require suitable computer connectivity hardware; depending on your requirements one may be the better option than others.
Connecting two computers via wireless networking creates a local area network (LAN). From this LAN, files can be transferred between devices as well as accessing any shared printers that might exist; local games and activities may even take place simultaneously across both PCs. However, for longer-term connectivity a wired connection might be the better choice.
Wired connections can be established using either a LAN cable or wireless router, both of which will offer fast and reliable internet access. A wireless router also boasts extensive networking features that will give you greater flexibility for data transfer between devices.
Wireless networks are designed to be secure, private ways of connecting devices. When creating one, an access point – an Internet-connected device which acts as the hub of your home or office network – must first be set up; other devices, like PCs, laptops and tablets can then connect via this access point to make up an infrastructure mode network connection that most commonly used within households or offices.
Create a temporary wireless network between two devices by activating Windows’ Ad Hoc mode. This will allow them to communicate directly, though its range will depend on each wireless adapter’s capability.
