# How to Send Large Files From One Windows PC to Another

Windows has built-in options for PCs on the same network or next to each other. Once the other PC is elsewhere, the files need to travel as a link.

_Source: https://sharelargefilesfree.com/pc-to-pc-file-transfer · Updated 2026-10-13_

**Quick answer:** For two Windows PCs next to each other, use Nearby sharing, a shared network folder or a USB drive. For a PC elsewhere, upload the files at Share Large Video Files (up to 20 GB per transfer) and send the link; the other PC downloads the same file to its Downloads folder.

## Built-in options, and their limits

**Nearby sharing** (Windows 10 and 11) sends files from the Share menu to a nearby Windows PC over Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. It is convenient for a few files, but slow for large ones over Bluetooth.

**Network sharing**: right-click a folder, Properties > Sharing, then open it from the other PC as \\PC-name. Both must be on the same network.

A **USB drive** formatted NTFS or exFAT holds files over 4 GB; FAT32 does not. **OneDrive** syncs between PCs, within its 5 GB free storage.

## Send any size from Windows PC to Windows PC with a link

1. Open Share Large Video Files on the first PC and drag in the files or folder.
2. Optional: add a password or an expiry under More options.
3. Copy the link and send it by email or chat.
4. On the other PC, open the link and click Download. The file goes to Downloads.

## Things that trip people up

- Nearby sharing needs both PCs to have it turned on (Settings > System > Nearby sharing) and set to your devices or everyone nearby.
- A FAT32 USB drive refuses single files over 4 GB with a "file too large" error. Reformat it as exFAT or NTFS.
- Network sharing across two different home networks does not work without a VPN; use a link instead.
- For folders with thousands of small files, zip them first: one big file uploads and downloads faster than many tiny ones.

## Nearby sharing vs network folder vs link

| | Nearby sharing | Network folder | Link |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Distance | Same room | Same network | Anywhere |
| Setup | Turn on in Settings | Share a folder, sign in | None |
| Good for | A few files | Large, repeated copies at home or work | Other people, other places |

## Frequently asked questions

### What is Nearby sharing in Windows?

A built-in feature in Windows 10 and 11 that sends files to nearby Windows PCs over Bluetooth or Wi-Fi from the Share menu.

### Why does my USB drive say the file is too large?

It is formatted FAT32, which cannot store a single file over 4 GB. Reformat it as exFAT or NTFS (this erases it).

### How do I move files to a new PC?

For everything, use an external drive or OneDrive with the Windows Backup app. For a set of files, a link or Nearby sharing is simpler.

### Can I send to a PC in another office?

Yes. Upload once and send the link; add a password and a download limit if the files are confidential.