5 วิธีการปฏิบัติในการโอนย้ายไฟล์ระหว่าง Android และ Windows PC

Imagine you're on a business trip, and a critical file is sitting on your office PC—but you forgot to leave it running. Or you're a student who needs to access your powerful desktop from the library, only to realize it's in sleep mode. This scenario is all too common, and it's exactly where remote desktop Wake on LAN becomes a lifesaver. Wake on LAN (WOL) is a technology that allows you to remotely power on a computer, even if it's shut down or sleeping. But here's the catch: most remote desktop tools don't include WOL functionality. You'd need one app to wake up the PC and another to connect—a clumsy workaround that frustrates users daily.

Enter DeskIn: a remote desktop solution that bakes WOL right into the experience. With DeskIn, you don't need separate tools. One click, and your PC wakes up and is ready for remote control - no manual intervention required. In this guide, we'll explore everything about remote desktop Wake on LAN, from how it works to step-by-step setup, and show you why DeskIn is the ultimate all-in-one answer.

What Is Wake on LAN (WOL) and How Does It Work?

Wake on LAN is a networking standard that allows a computer to be turned on remotely by sending a special signal called a magic packet. This packet contains the target computer's MAC address and is broadcast over the local network. When the network card detects the packet, it triggers the computer to power up—even if the OS is shut down, as long as the motherboard still has standby power.

1. The Magic Packet: How WOL Communicates with Your PC

The magic packet is a simple frame of data. It starts with six bytes of 0xFF (all ones), followed by the MAC address repeated 16 times. Network cards that support WOL listen to this pattern even when the system is off. Once received, they signal the motherboard to start the boot process.

2. Requirements for WOL: Hardware, BIOS, Network

For WOL to work, three components must align:

1. Hardware: The network card must support WOL (most modern Ethernet adapters do).

2. BIOS/UEFI: Wake on LAN must be enabled in the firmware settings.

3. Power: The computer must be connected to a power source, and the PSU must supply standby power to the network card.

Why You Need WOL for Remote Desktop (Especially for Windows 10/11)

If you rely on remote desktop tools like Windows Remote Desktop, Chrome Remote Desktop, or third-party apps, you've likely encountered the same dilemma: "Should I leave my PC running 24/7 just in case?" That's wasteful and potentially unsafe. With WOL, you can keep your PC off or in sleep mode and wake it only when needed.

This is especially relevant for remote desktop Wake on LAN for Windows 10 and Windows 11 users because these operating systems have robust power-saving features. Pairing them with WOL gives you the best of both worlds: energy savings and on-demand access.

Step-by-Step Guide: Use DeskIn for Remote Desktop Wake on LAN

Enabling WOL involves three main steps: 1) configuring the network adapter, 2) tweaking the BIOS, and 3) setting up your router for remote access. Follow these instructions carefully.

Note:

1. To use Wake on LAN, the device running DeskIn in the same LAN as the computer about to be woken up. For example, other computers, iPhone, iPad, Android devices (mobile phones, tablets) etc, using that to assist in running DeskIn.

2. Linux devices do not support sending WOL packets, and Mac and Linux devices do not support remote boot.

3. Devices that are in an abnormal shutdown state, such as a blue screen or crash, do not support remote boot.

Step 1. Network Card Settings

Right-click the Windows Logo (or press Win + X) and select "Device Manager." Find and expand the "Network adapters" section. Locate your wired Ethernet card (e.g., Realtek PCIe GbE Family Controller), right-click it, and select "Properties."

• Navigate to the Power Management tab and check "Allow this device to wake the computer."

• Switch to the Advanced tab. In the Property list, find "Wake on Magic Packet" and set it to Enabled. If you see other Wake on LAN related options, enable them as well. Click "OK" to save the settings.

Step 2. Motherboard BIOS Settings

Restart your computer. During boot, repeatedly press Delete or F2 (depending on your motherboard brand) to enter the BIOS setup.

• Navigate to the Advanced or Power Management section.

• Look for and enable options with names similar to these (you may only find one or two):

  • Power On By PCI-E

  • Wake on LAN

  • Resume on LAN

  • Power on PME
    Press F10 to save changes and restart your computer.

Note: The exact menu names vary by motherboard manufacturer.

Step 3. Enable and Test Remote Wake-Up in DeskIn

First, ensure your auxiliary device (like a phone or tablet) is on the same local network as your target computer, with DeskIn installed and logged into the same account.

• On the auxiliary device, open DeskIn, go to Settings > General Settings, and enable "Remote Boot Support Wake On LAN."

• Return to the DeskIn device list. Your powered-off computer will show as "Offline." Click the "Remote startup" button next to that device.

• Wait a few seconds—the target computer will wake up, its status will change to "Online," and you can click to connect for remote desktop access.

With DeskIn's integrated approach, you can not only verify your Wake on LAN setup with one click but also seamlessly transition to remote control, eliminating the hassle of separate testing tools.

Common Challenges: "Wake on LAN Not Working" and How to Fix Them

A quick search on Reddit reveals countless posts like:

"Can Windows Remote Desktop turn on your PC, or do you need a LAN switch for that?"

"Any Free RDP With Wake on LAN Functionality? Or Good Dedicated WoL App?"

Users often hit roadblocks:

• WOL is not working due to incorrect network card settings.

• Remote wake over the internet is failing because the magic packet doesn't reach the PC

• Chrome Remote Desktop Wake on LAN is not supported natively.

• Wake on LAN not working on Windows 10/11 after sleep.

These issues typically stem from misconfigured power management, router settings, or a lack of proper software support. We'll address them in the setup guide.

The Best Wake on LAN Software: Why DeskIn Combines WOL and Remote Desktop Seamlessly

Many users end up juggling multiple apps: one for WOL (e.g., a mobile app) and another for remote desktop. This is clunky and error-prone. DeskIn solves this by integrating remote desktop Wake on LAN into a single, intuitive interface.

DeskIn: One-Click from Sleep to Remote Desktop

With DeskIn, you don't need to remember IP addresses, MAC addresses, or router settings. The best Wake on Lan software handles the wake-up signal through its cloud infrastructure. When you try to connect to a sleeping PC, DeskIn automatically sends a wake-up request—no extra steps.

DeskIn vs. Other Solutions (Chrome Remote Desktop, Splashtop, etc.)

• DeskIn: Provides free WOL functionality integrated into the remote desktop client, with easy setup and reliable performance

• Chrome Remote Desktop Wake on LAN: Not natively supported; you'd need a separate tool

• Splashtop: Offers WOL but often requires a paid plan for advanced features

• AnyDesk/TeamViewer: May have WOL limitations or require additional configuration

You may also be interested in:

• Honest Review: TeamViewer's Wake on LAN – Pros, Cons, and Alternatives

• AnyDesk Wake on LAN Review: Can It Really Wake Your PC from Sleep?

Frequently Asked Questions About Remote Desktop Wake on LAN

1. When can Wake on LAN be used?

Wake on LAN is useful in scenarios where remote access or IT management is needed without keeping devices powered on constantly. It can be used for remote IT support, scheduled maintenance, powering up servers or workstations before business hours, and enabling employees to access their office computers from home.

2. Can I wake up my PC over the internet?

Yes, but you need either router port forwarding or a cloud-based WOL service. DeskIn's cloud relay makes this seamless—no port forwarding required.

3. Is Wake on LAN safe?

WOL itself is relatively safe because it only powers the PC. However, leaving port 9 open can expose you to potential attacks. Using a service like DeskIn adds a layer of authentication and encryption.

4. Does WOL work on Wi-Fi?

WOL over Wi-Fi is unreliable because Wi-Fi adapters often lose power during sleep. It's best to use a wired Ethernet connection for WOL.

5. Can I turn off Wake on LAN?

Yes, you can turn off Wake on LAN by disabling it in the BIOS/UEFI settings and in the network adapter settings within your operating system. If you decide that you no longer need this functionality, simply adjust these settings to prevent the computer from waking up remotely.

Never Leave Your PC Running 24/7 Again

Remote desktop Wake on LAN transforms how you access your computers. Instead of leaving machines running around the clock, you can save energy, reduce wear, and still have instant access when needed. While setting up WOL manually can be tricky, tools like DeskIn eliminate the complexity by integrating wake-up and remote access into one polished experience.

Whether you're using Windows Remote Desktop, need a solution for Windows 10/11, or want to avoid the "WOL not working" headache, DeskIn delivers. Try it today and experience the freedom of a truly on-demand remote desktop.

It's 2026, and you'd think moving files between devices would be seamless by now. Yet here we are: Google's official Android File Transfer still crashes on macOS Sequoia. Quick Share discovers devices only half the time. And Bluetooth? Best reserved for a single contact card—not your 4GB vacation video.

The reality is that file transfer software for Android has fragmented into specialized tools. Some excel at local speed. Others unlock remote access. A few even let you access files on a computer from Android while you're 3,000 miles away.

You may also like:

• How to Transfer Files Over Remote Desktop Easily & Smoothly

• How to Transfer Files from Mac to Windows Wirelessly

Overview of Android File Transfer Apps

Here is the detailed reviews for 10 best Android file transfer applications.

1. DeskIn: Best for Remote File Access and Cross‑Platform Management

Pros

• Unattended remote access to PC files from any device (Android, iOS, Web)

• High‑speed P2P file transfer (up to 12MB/s) with auto‑resume

• Cross‑platform: control Windows/Mac from Android, transfer files between Android and Windows PC wirelessly

• Built‑in Wake‑on‑LAN – power on a remote PC from a phone

• Free tier supports 3 devices, no file size limits

Cons

• Requires app installation on both ends

DeskIn stands apart from other file transfer software for Android tools by letting you access files on your PC from your Android phone even when you’re far away. DeskIn lets you also access files on your computer from Android even when you're miles away.

Need a contract from your office PC while at the airport? Simply open DeskIn on your Android, browse the remote desktop, and drag the file to your phone. The connection is secured with AES‑256 + TLS 1.3, and transfers automatically resume if the network drops.

Beyond one‑off transfers, DeskIn is great for transferring files between Android and Windows PC daily. You can push screenshots from your Android to your Windows desktop with a single click, or pull design assets from your Mac to your Android tablet. For users who juggle multiple platforms and need both Android file transfer software for Windows and Android file transfer software for Mac, DeskIn is the one tool that works across all your devices and platforms.

2. Best for Mac Users Who Need a Reliable Android File Transfer Tool: MobiKin Assistant for Android

Pros

• Native support for both Windows and macOS

• USB and Wi-Fi transfer options

• Two-way transfers – Android to Mac and Mac to Android

• Manages contacts, SMS, apps, photos, videos, and more

• One-click backup and restore

Cons

• Paid software – full version from $29.95

• Free trial has limitations

• Requires USB debugging setup

If you're a Mac user frustrated by Google's abandoned Android File Transfer for Mac, which crashes constantly and hasn't been updated in years, MobiKin Assistant for Android is the reliable replacement you need. It mounts your Android device for fast USB transfers, but also adds Wi-Fi connectivity, two-way file moving, and deep data management.

You can export SMS threads, edit contacts in bulk, install apps, and create full device backups with one click. No cloud, no privacy concerns, no connection drops.

3. Best for Instant Wireless Sharing Between Android and Windows - Quick Share

Pros

• Pre‑installed on most Android phones (Android 6+)

• Uses Wi‑Fi Direct + Bluetooth – no mobile data

• Windows app is available for cross‑platform

Cons

• Windows version requires 64‑bit Windows 10/11

• Older Android devices may lack support

Quick Share is Google's answer to AirDrop, and it works surprisingly well for local transfers. If you're looking for efficient Bluetooth file transfer software for Android, Quick Share automatically switches between Bluetooth (for device discovery) and Wi‑Fi Direct (for high‑speed data). Sending a 4K video to a nearby Windows laptop takes seconds, with no cables or cloud uploads.

The Windows client (available from Samsung or Google's site) makes Quick Share a viable option for transferring files between Android and Windows PC without any dongles. It's perfect for quick, on‑the‑spot sharing at home or in the office. The main limitation is range: both devices must be within Bluetooth range (~10m). For remote access, you'll still need a tool like DeskIn.

4. Best for Sending Large Files via Temporary Code: Send Anywhere

Pros

• No file size limit

• 6‑digit key system – no account needed

• Truly cross‑platform: Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux, Web

Cons

• Keys expire in 10 minutes – stressful for slow recipients

• Speeds depend on the server relay

Send Anywhere stands out for its simplicity: you select a file, the app generates a 6‑digit code, and the recipient enters it on any device to download. It doesn't matter if they're on Android, iPhone, or a Windows PC – the file travels through Send Anywhere's servers (encrypted) and is then deleted. This makes it ideal for transferring photos from Android to iPhone when switching ecosystems, or for sending a large video to a client who isn't tech‑savvy.

Because there's no file size cap, you can even send 100GB+ files (though speeds may vary). The free version is fully functional; the paid plan adds cloud storage and link control. However, it requires an internet connection on both sides, and the 10‑minute expiry can be problematic.

For high-speed transfers between your devices (phones, tablets, and laptops) without an internet connection, LocalSend is the better choice. Quick Share works great for Android-to-Android transfers, but requires an internet connection when sharing with iPhones.

5. Best for Reliable Android ↔ Mac USB/Wireless Transfers: MacDroid

Pros

• Mounter – mounts Android as a native macOS volume

• Supports both USB and Wi‑Fi

• Edit files directly on an Android device

Cons

• Free version only allows Android → Mac transfers

• The pro version is subscription‑based

MacDroid solves the biggest frustration of Android‑on‑Mac: unreliable MTP connections. It mounts your Android device as a standard disk drive in Finder, so you can drag files both ways, rename folders, or even open documents directly from your phone. The USB transfer speed is stable and much faster than Android File Transfer. If you frequently move large video files between your Android phone and MacBook, MacDroid is the best option.

The wireless mode works over the local network, giving you cable‑free convenience at home. However, the free version severely restricts outgoing transfers, pushing you toward a $19.99/year subscription. For users who only need occasional Android file transfer software for Mac, Android File Transfer (free) might suffice. If you need more than just basic photo transfers—like accessing system files or drag-and-drop management—MacDroid is worth the investment. Alternatively, DeskIn offers remote transfer without any device‑side mounting issues.

6. Best for Remote Android Management and File Transfer: AirDroid

Pros

• Wireless file transfer via web browser or desktop client

• Remote control of the Android screen (for support)

• SMS, notification mirroring

Cons

• Privacy concerns; data goes through AirDroid servers

• The free version has transfer caps

AirDroid is more than a file transfer app. It's a full remote management suite. You can access your Android phone's files from any web browser, transfer photos wirelessly, and even send SMS from your PC. This makes it a powerful tool for accessing files on a computer from Android in reverse: you can push files from your PC to your phone just by dragging them into the browser window.

The downside is that most features rely on AirDroid's cloud servers, which raises privacy questions and can slow down large transfers. The free tier limits data to 200MB/month.

AirDroid remains popular among IT support technicians who need to troubleshoot family members' devices, but for pure file transfer, DeskIn or LocalSend are more direct and private.

7. Best for Seamless Windows‑Android Integration: Phone Link

Pros

• Built into Windows 10/11

• Drag‑and‑drop photo transfer

• View notifications, take calls

Cons

• Only transfers photos (no documents, music, etc.)

• Requires a Microsoft account and the Link to Windows app

Phone Link (formerly Your Phone) is Microsoft's official solution to connect Android and Windows. It excels at integrating your phone's communication features – messages, calls, notifications – directly on your PC. For file transfer, however, it's strictly limited to photos. You can drag photos from your Android gallery to a Windows folder, but you cannot transfer PDFs, APKs, music, or any other file type.

If your primary need is how to transfer files from pc to pc, Phone Link won't help; it's phone‑to‑PC only. For Android users who mainly want to back up camera shots to their Windows computer, it's convenient and pre‑installed. But anyone needing universal file transfer software for Android will quickly hit a wall. Pair it with DeskIn for full document access.

8. Best for Samsung Users Migrating Data: Samsung Smart Switch

Pros

• All‑in‑one data migration (contacts, messages, apps, photos)

• Works with iOS as well (cable or wireless)

• Free and reliable

Cons

• Primarily for device setup, not daily transfers

Smart Switch is Samsung's official tool to move data from an old phone (Android or iPhone) to a new Samsung Galaxy device. It's not designed for day‑to‑day file shuffling, but it performs one task exceptionally well: complete phone migration. You can use a USB‑C to USB‑C cable for a 20‑minute full restore, or go wireless if you don't have the cable.

For Samsung loyalists, Smart Switch is indispensable. It transfers almost everything, including WhatsApp chats (from Android) and iMessage history (from iPhone). However, it's not a general‑purpose Android file transfer software for Windows – you can't selectively copy a single document to your PC. That's where tools like DeskIn or iReaShare come in.

9. Best for Privacy‑Focused Local Network Transfers: LocalSend

Pros

• Open source, no servers, no tracking

• Works on all platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux

• No internet is required – use LAN

Cons

• Both devices must be on the same Wi‑Fi

• The interface is basic and lacks advanced features

LocalSend has gained massive popularity on Reddit as the anti‑"spyware" alternative to SHAREit and Xender. It's completely open source, sends files directly over your local network (no cloud servers), and requires no account or internet connection. For privacy-conscious users, this is the gold standard for transferring files between an Android and windows PC when both are at home.

While it lacks remote access (you must be on the same Wi‑Fi), LocalSend is incredibly fast and reliable. It also works offline, making it perfect for campus environments or offices with restricted internet. The app is free with no ads or paid tiers. If you need to transfer photos from Android to iPhone across the same network, LocalSend does it instantly without compressing quality.

10. Best for Comprehensive Android Data Management: iReaShare Android Manager

Pros

• Complete management: contacts, messages, apps, photos, videos

• High‑speed USB & Wi‑Fi transfer

• Backup & restore functionality

Cons

• Free trial limited; full version paid

• Windows/Mac only – no mobile app for receiving

iReaShare Android Manager is a desktop‑based app that gives you full control of your Android device from your computer. Unlike simple transfer apps, it lets you view, edit, add, and delete contacts, send/receive SMS from your PC, install/uninstall apps in bulk, and, of course, transfer any media file. It supports both USB and Wi‑Fi connections, and the transfer speed is consistently high – up to 12MB/s.

The software is particularly useful for users who want to access files on a computer from Android in reverse: you can push files from your PC to your phone just as easily as pulling them. The free trial allows you to test the features, but advanced functions require a license. For users who regularly manage large photo libraries or need to back up text messages, iReaShare is a capable, all‑in‑one alternative to Google's built-in tools.

FAQs

1. What is the fastest way to transfer files from Android to PC?

Wired USB 3.0 connections still win for pure speed, but DeskIn delivers the best balance of convenience and performance, especially when you're not near your computer. The speed of transfers files at up to 12MB/s over any distance, with automatic resumes for unstable connections. For local wireless speed, LocalSend maxes out your Wi-Fi speed.

2. How do I transfer photos from Android to iPhone wirelessly?

Send Anywhere is the simplest: generate a 6‑digit code on Android, enter it on iPhone, and transfer photos without quality loss. DeskIn also works for cross‑platform file moves.

3. Can I access files on my computer from Android when I'm away?

Absolutely. DeskIn is built for this. It lets you wake a sleeping PC remotely, browse folders, and download files directly to your phone. No router configuration is required. AirDroid offers similar remote access but with transfer caps on the free tier.

Conclusion – DeskIn First, Others Second

No single file transfer software for Android does it all. But one does most of it. DeskIn is the only tool that lets you access files on a computer from Android remotely, transfer cross-platform, and even learn how to transfer files from pc to pc—all with AES‑256 + TLS 1.3 encryption. Keep LocalSend for private local sharing and Send Anywhere for emergencies.

But start with DeskIn. Stop searching for Android file transfer software for Windows or Mac. One app. All your devices.

Your new PC is ready, but all your files are still trapped in the old one. USB‑C won't talk to USB‑A, 1TB of data won't fit on a dusty 16GB flash drive, and that transfer cable you bought ships with a driver CD—but new PC doesn't even have a disc drive. These aren't one‑off headaches; they're the exact scenarios real users describe when they search for how to transfer files from PC to PC:

1. "I have a PC with a Type C port and another PC with a Type A port.
   When I connect these, I am unable to transfer files."

2. "My new computer does not have a CD-ROM drive. How do I install the driver?"

3. "How do I get everything on my old PC on my new PC?"

Six methods exist. One of them is wireless, free to start, and completely independent of whether your computers run Windows, macOS, or other USB languages. Let's find yours！

Quick Comparison: Which Method Fits You?

1. DeskIn — Best for Wireless, Cross-Platform, Cable‑Free Transfer

Advantages with DeskIn

• No cables, no adapters, no driver CDs – works entirely over Wi-Fi

• Compatible with both Windows and macOS – easy cross-platform transfer

• No file size limits – send 100GB+ videos or backups without splitting

• Direct peer-to-peer transfer – files never touch a third-party cloud server

• Drag-and-drop simplicity – no network discovery or drive mapping required

• AES-256 encryption – your files are secure

• Free tier available – no credit card required to start

Disadvantage

• Requires both PCs to be on the internet

Mismatched ports and missing drivers are the most common reasons PC-to-PC transfers fail. DeskIn removes both problems. No cable. No adapter. No installation media required. The application establishes a direct, encrypted peer-to-peer connection over Wi-Fi. It works on both Windows and macOS, and port types don’t matter.

DeskIn bypasses the physical layer entirely: No dongles, no "driver not found" errors, no expensive docks. This is also the only consumer‑friendly tool on this list that lets you transfer files between Windows and Mac wirelessly without any technical setup. Your old Windows workhorse and your new MacBook Air? They shake hands instantly.

How to transfer files with DeskIn

Step 1. Download DeskIn

Visit DeskIn Personal Download and install it on both devices. Create and log in to your account on both devices. DeskIn offers a free trial, and you can start using it immediately.

Step 2. Choose Remote PC to Connect

Navigate to the Device List, find the target PC, click the File Transfer button, and enter the Password (Remote Control).

Note: If your two devices are not logged into the same account, you will also need to enter the device code.

Step 3. Send Files Instantly

Simply drag and drop files between your computers. DeskIn will transfer files at 12MB/s. At the bottom of the page, you can track the progress of the file transfer. After a successful transfer, you can see the transferred files in your folder.

Note: DeskIn supports cross-system file transfers of unlimited size, type, and number.

That's it. Your files move directly - no cloud staging, no size limits on the free tier for transfers, and no waiting for uploads to finish before downloads can start.

You may also like:

• 5 Practical Ways To Transfer Files Between Android And Windows PC

• How to Access Files on Your Computer from Android: A Seamless Guide for Remote Workers and Digital Nomads

2. External Hard Drive: Best for Massive Offline Transfers (1 TB+)

Advantages

• No internet required; works anywhere

• One‑time hardware cost; no subscriptions

• Total physical control: Are files directly on my computer at all times

Disadvantages

• A physical device can be lost, stolen, or dropped

• No built‑in encryption; data is exposed if the drive is misplaced

• You must own a drive large enough to hold all your data

The Reddit user facing a terabyte of data wasn't exaggerating: "I want to transfer about 1TB of data. It's mostly just in a few folders." When you're moving that much information, cloud uploads can take days. External drives are still the fastest option for moving large amounts of data.

How to transfer files with an external hard drive

1. Connect the external hard drive to your old PC

2. Open your file explorer and drag the files or folders you want to transfer into the drive

3. Safely eject the hard drive and connect it to your new PC

4. Open the drive in your File Explorer and move the files to their new location

Pro tip: If you are moving your files directly to Windows system folders (like the entire C:\Users directory), you may need administrator permissions. Copy what you can; use DeskIn for the rest.

You may also like:

• How to Transfer Photos from Android to iPhone Fast with DeskIn

• The Ultimate Guide to Transferring iPhone Photos to Your Computer: Wireless & Wired for Windows/Mac

3. USB Transfer Cable: Best for Direct Wired Transfer Without a Network

Advantages

• Faster than external HDDs for thousands of small files

• No router or Wi‑Fi needed

• Often includes simple transfer software

Disadvantages

• Requires a specialized USB cable transfer files — not a standard USB cord

• PCs must be within cable length (usually 1–2 meters)

• Driver CDs are often included; new PCs may lack optical drives

• Cable becomes e‑waste after one use

The Reddit user who asked about bridging cables hit the exact pain point: "I've read about USB bridging cables, but you seem to need to install software from a CD. My new computer does not have a CD-ROM drive." This method works—if you can solve the driver dependency before your old PC is packed away.

How to transfer files with the USB Transfer Cable

1. Connect the cable to both PCs using the appropriate USB ports

2. Launch the software that came with the cable (usually auto-installs)

3. Select the files or folders you want to transfer and begin the process

Can you use an HDMI cable?

No. This question appears in forums constantly. HDMI carries video and audio. It does not carry your documents.

4. Local Network (Wi‑Fi / LAN) — Best for Frequent Transfers on the Same Router

Advantages

• No new hardware to buy

• Good for ongoing, recurring transfers

• Works wirelessly; no cables between PCs

Disadvantages

• Speed is capped by your router and Wi‑Fi congestion

• Both PCs must be powered on and on the same network

• Initial setup requires navigating Windows Settings

If you frequently ask how to move downloads from one laptop to another in the same household, network sharing is the easiest ongoing option. Once set up, it works like moving files between folders on one computer — no speed limits, no USB sticks.

How to set up network sharing (Windows 10/11)

1. Connect both PCs to the same Wi‑Fi or wired network.

2. On the source PC, open Settings > Network & Internet > Ethernet (or Wi‑Fi) and ensure the network profile is set to Private.

3. Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > Advanced sharing settings.

4. Turn on Network discovery and File and printer sharing.

5. Right‑click the folder you want to share → Properties → Sharing → Share.

6. On the destination PC, open File Explorer, click Network in the sidebar, and double‑click the source PC's name.

For remote workers: You can also transfer files over remote desktop by connecting to the office PC and mapping local drives in the Remote Desktop session—ideal for pulling specific files while travelling.

Cloud Storage — Best for Ongoing Sync and Always‑Available Access

Advantages

• Files are encrypted in transit and at rest

• Accessible from any device, anywhere

• No physical media to lose or damage

Disadvantages

• Requires a paid subscription for large volumes

• Upload then = double the time

• Speed is entirely dependent on your internet pipe

Not everyone is doing a one-time migration. Some users want their files to live in the cloud permanently—available on their phone, tablet, and laptop simultaneously. Cloud storage is less a "transfer method" and more a permanent relocation.

How to transfer files with Cloud Storage

1. Install your preferred cloud provider's desktop app (Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox) on the old PC.

2. Sign in. Choose which folders to sync to the cloud.

3. Wait for the upload to complete. (For 1TB of data on average U.S. broadband, plan for roughly 48 hours of uninterrupted upload.)

4. On the new PC, install the same app and sign in with the same account.

5. The files will sync down to the new machine.

Heads up: If you delete a synced file on one device while both are signed in, it will be deleted everywhere. Always sign out of your old PC before wiping it.

6. PC Migration Software: Best for Full System State Migration

Advantages

• Transfers applications, settings, and user profiles — not just files

• High security (SFTP, AES‑256) for regulated industries

• Can schedule transfers during off‑peak hours

Disadvantages

• Expensive (often enterprise licensing)

• Steep learning curve

• Massive overkill for most home users

The Reddit user asking "How do I get everything on my old PC on my new PC?" might not realize that "everything" includes application configurations, saved login sessions, and system tweaks accumulated over the years. Regular tools move your files. Migration software moves everything, including your apps, settings, and saved sessions.

How to transfer files with PC Migration Software (varies by vendor)

1. Install the migration software on both PCs.

2. Choose a transfer type: network, direct cable, or external media.

3. Select which system elements to migrate (files, apps, settings).

4. Follow the vendor's wizard to complete the transfer.

When you actually need this: If you are moving your files directly on Windows system folders that Windows locks during normal operation, or if you are migrating an entire domain‑joined corporate machine, consumer tools won't cut it. This is a job for IT.

You may also like:

• Share Files Between Windows and iPhone Wirelessly! No Apps Required.

• The Best File Transfer Software for Android: Toplist You Want to Know

FAQs on Transferring Files (PC to PC)

1. How do I transfer everything from my old computer to my new computer Windows 10 to Windows 11?

For personal files: Use DeskIn for a fast, wireless transfer—it's free for up to 2 GB and inexpensive for larger volumes. Unlike a bridging cable, you don't need to hunt down drivers or worry about whether your new PC has a CD-ROM drive.

For system settings: Use the built‑in Windows Backup app (Settings > Accounts > Windows Backup) to sync your preferences to your Microsoft account. Restore them during Windows 11 setup.

2. What is the easiest way to transfer files from PC to PC wirelessly?

DeskIn requires zero configuration beyond installing and logging in to the app. Both PCs discover each other automatically: no network sharing settings to toggle, no folder permissions to configure. If you prefer native tools, Windows Nearby Sharing works when both devices are on the same Wi‑Fi, but it can be finicky with large folders. DeskIn handles bulk transfers more reliably.

3. How do I transfer files if my PCs have different USB port types?

This is the exact situation DeskIn was built for. The Reddit user with "a PC with a Type C port and another PC with a Type A port" doesn't need an adapter, a dongle, or a special cable. Use a wireless method. DeskIn or local network sharing means port types don’t matter at all. Your files move over Wi-Fi instead.

4. Should I wipe my old computer after transferring files?

Yes, absolutely — if you plan to sell, recycle, or give it away. Deleting files and emptying the Recycle Bin is not enough. On Windows 10 or 11: go to Settings > System > Recovery, click Reset this PC, and select Remove everything. This ensures your personal data is unrecoverable. Before you wipe it, double-check that DeskIn (or your chosen transfer method) successfully moved everything. Once you reset, there's no going back.

Pick the Right Method for Your Transfer

No single method works for everyone — only the right one for your situation. External drives are fastest for large data. Windows Sharing works well at home. Migration software is for IT pros. But if you're dealing with mismatched ports, missing CD-ROM drives, or transferring between Windows and Mac, DeskIn is the only tool that skips all those problems. No cables, no drivers, no frustration. DeskIn also works for ongoing remote access, not just one-time transfers.

Start your free DeskIn backup today. No credit card required.