For example, when you have to transfer files from an old to a new computer, or you want to connect to a file server (such as TrueNAS or unRAID) using a 10 Gigabit Ethernet connection directly, when you do not have a 10 Gigabit switch in the network. Whatever the reason it might be, you can configure Windows 10 to communicate with another computer without the need of a switch or Wi-Fi connection. In this guide, you will learn two methods to connect two devices and share data using one Ethernet cable on Windows 10.
How to connect two devices using Ethernet cable with network configuration How to connect two devices using Ethernet cable without network configuration
How to connect two devices using Ethernet cable with network configuration
If you need to transfer files between computers without the use of a switch, you will need to connect both devices using a straight through or crossover cable. The straight through cable is the conventional Ethernet cable that has the same wire color alignment on each end. On the other hand, the crossover cable has different wire alignment of colors on each end. On most modern computers using a Gigabit Ethernet network adapter, the system will sense and switch orientation automatically to allow communication without a switch in the middle, but some computers (especially those with an older card) will still need a crossover cable. After connecting both devices with an Ethernet cable, you need to configure the network settings to connect both devices running Windows 10. On the first computer, use these steps: Once you complete the steps, you will need to configure the second device with a similar configuration to allow the communication. Change adapter settings Network adapter properties Ethernet properties Connect two computers static IP address In the second computer, use these steps: After you complete the steps, you can share a folder or service that will be accessible from the other device. You can refer to steps belows to complete the task or you can use these instructions to share folder with another computer. Change adapter settings Network adapter properties Ethernet properties Second computer static IP address
How to connect two devices using Ethernet cable without network configuration
While the proper method is to use a network configuration to connect two computers directly, Windows 10 can also automatically assign an IP address using the 169.254.x.x network range, which is known as the Automatic Private Internet Protocol Addressing (APIPA). If you do not want to go through the process of configuring the network, you can connect both devices and let them configure themself automatically, then you only need to share the data or service you are intending to access from another computer. In the case that you are trying to transfer some files, you will need to share a folder to then access it from the other device. On the first computer, use these steps: After you complete the steps, the files will be accessible from the second computer. Give access to specific people Share folder between two computers On the second computer, use these steps: After you complete the steps, you can transfer the files to the new destination. File Explorer Network section All content on this site is provided with no warranties, express or implied. Use any information at your own risk. Always backup of your device and files before making any changes. Privacy policy info.
