Transferring files between two PCs can be a hassle, especially if the files are small. Many users transfer these files using a USB drive that they plug into one PC and then into the second.

Uploading to the cloud is also a common solution. From there, the files can then be downloaded to the second PC. You can also make both PCs visible on your local network and copy the files that way.

Each of these methods is cumbersome in some way – either through multiple steps that slow down the process with each transfer (USB and cloud) or upfront when setting up the system (local network).

If you only want to transfer small files, there is a better method built into Windows. It is called Nearby Sharing (on German-speaking Windows systems: “Nearby Share”), uses data transfer via Bluetooth, is fast and easy to use and is available for PCs with Windows 10 and 11.

Continue reading: How to format USB sticks and external drives in Windows

How to use Nearby Sharing

Step 1: Enable Nearby Sharing

Click on “Start” and then on “Settings” and then select “System”. In Windows 10 you will find the function you are looking for under “Sharing” in the left bar, in Windows 11 click on “Nearby Sharing”.

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A settings window will open, where you can turn the option on and off.

Once you’re in Settings, you can choose whether you want sharing to apply to all devices nearby, or if you want to limit sharing and receiving to your devices. On Windows 11, you can also change the location where received files are saved (they’re usually placed in your default Downloads folder).

Attention: You must enable Nearby Sharing on all PCs between which you want to share files.

Step 2: Share the file(s) between PCs

Right-click the file(s) you want to share, then choose “Share” from the context menu. If you are in a File Explorer window, you can also choose “Share” > “Share” from the ribbon menu.

You should see the name of the receiving PC in the list of available devices. Click on it to send a sharing request and accept the request via your Windows notifications. (If you don’t see the pop-up, check the Notification Center in the taskbar).

You can transfer files between Windows 10 and 11 PCs – there are no restrictions on the operating system version.

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When to use Nearby Sharing

Nearby Sharing isn’t always the fastest way to transfer files. When connected via Bluetooth rather than Wi-Fi, it’s much slower than uploading to the cloud or using a USB drive. However, for small files (like smartphone photos or screenshots), this delay isn’t as noticeable.

With Nearby Sharing, the files you transfer also remain private because they are only available locally on the respective PC. And in some cases, this method also means less work, especially if you want to upload a lot of images to Slack or Teams.