How to share files between Windows PCs with Nearby sharing

2 min read · 6 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

Short answer

On both PCs, open Settings, System, Nearby sharing and choose My devices only or Everyone nearby. Then right-click a file in File Explorer, choose Share and click the name of the other PC. On that PC, click Save or Save & open.

Nearby sharing sends files, photos and links from one Windows PC to another close by, over Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, without a cable, a USB stick or email. Both PCs need Windows 11 or Windows 10 from version 1803.

These steps are for Windows 11. The pictures are simplified diagrams of the Settings window, not screenshots, so colours and spacing on your PC look a little different.

Step by step

  1. – ▢ ✕SettingsSystemBluetooth & devicesNetwork & internetAppsAccountsTime & languageAccessibilityWindows UpdateSystemDisplaySoundNotificationsNearby sharing

    Turn it on on both PCs

    Open Start, Settings, System, Nearby sharing. Choose My devices only to share between PCs signed in to your own Microsoft account, or Everyone nearby to share with any PC close to you.

  2. Check Bluetooth and Wi-Fi

    Bluetooth must be on. Transfers are much faster when both PCs are also on the same Wi-Fi network and that network is set to Private.

  3. Choose where received files go

    Under Save files I receive to, click Change if you want a folder other than Downloads.

  4. Share a file

    In File Explorer, select the file and click Share in the toolbar, or right-click it and choose Share. Under Nearby sharing, click the name of the other PC.

  5. Accept on the other PC

    A notification appears there. Click Save & open or Save.

  6. Share a web page or a photo

    In Microsoft Edge, open Settings and more, More tools, Share and pick the PC. In the Photos app, open the picture and click Share.

Good to know

With Everyone nearby, the name of your PC is visible to other PCs around you. Switch back to My devices only or Off when you are done, especially in public places.

If the other PC does not appear, bring the two closer together and open the Nearby sharing settings on the receiving PC.

To and from an Android phone, use Quick Share: how to share files with Quick Share on Android. For phone notifications and photos on the PC: how to connect a phone to a Windows 11 PC with Phone Link.

In short: Settings, System, Nearby sharing on both PCs, Bluetooth on, right-click the file, Share, pick the PC, Save on the other side.

Sources
  • Microsoft Support: Share things with nearby devices in Windows

Rules and prices change. Check the official source before you act.