For a few files, use Nearby sharing: turn it on in Settings > System > Nearby sharing on both PCs, then right-click a file, select Share, and pick the other PC. For lots of files, copy them to a USB drive or put them in OneDrive and open them on the other PC.
Applies to: Windows 11 (Nearby sharing also works with Windows 10). Checked against Microsoft Support on September 29, 2026.
Which way should I use?
- A few files, PCs side by side: Nearby sharing.
- Lots of files or big videos: a USB flash drive or external drive.
- Files you want on both PCs: OneDrive.
Send files with Nearby sharing
Do these first two steps on both PCs.
- Select Start > Settings > System > Nearby sharing.
- Choose Everyone nearby. (My devices only works if both PCs use the same Microsoft account.)
- On the PC with the files, open File Explorer and select the file.
- Select Share on the toolbar, or right-click the file and select Share.
- Select the other PC under Nearby sharing.
- On the other PC, select Save or Save & open when the notification appears. Files go to the Downloads folder.
Keep both PCs close together with Bluetooth on. It’s fastest when both are on the same private Wi-Fi network. When you’re done, you can set Nearby sharing back to Off.
Use a USB drive
- Plug the USB drive into the first PC.
- Copy the files or folders onto it.
- Safely remove the drive, plug it into the second PC, and copy the files off.
For a whole drive of files, see how to back up Windows 11 to an external hard drive.
Use OneDrive
Move the files into your OneDrive folder on the first PC and wait for them to upload. On the second PC, open OneDrive with the same account. The files appear there. Free OneDrive storage is limited, so this works best for documents and photos.
Frequently asked questions
Can I send files to a Windows 10 PC?
Yes. Nearby sharing works with Windows 10 version 1803 or later. See how to transfer files from PC to PC in Windows 10.
Why can’t I see the other PC?
Check that Nearby sharing is on for both PCs, Bluetooth is on, and they’re close together. If one PC is set to My devices only, switch both to Everyone nearby.
Microsoft’s reference is Share things with nearby devices in Windows. More help is on our Windows Help & Guides page.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
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