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TalonJace's avatar
TalonJace
Iron Contributor
Jan 19, 2026

Transfer files from mac to windows via usb cable or wifi network?

Just switched from an old MacBook Pro to a new Windows 11 laptop and now stuck on the file transfer part. There's nearly 100GB of stuff (videos, photos, project folders), and no clue what is the leas...
KairosRivers's avatar
KairosRivers
Iron Contributor
Jan 19, 2026

Once you've mastered the correct method, transferring files from a Mac to a Windows computer is straightforward. The fastest and most reliable approach is to use a local network and the SMB protocol.

How to Transfer Files from Mac to Windows

Preparing the Windows Computer

  • On Windows, right-click the folder where you wish to receive the files and select “Properties”.

  • Switch to the Sharing tab, click “Advanced sharing, tick Share this folder, and note the displayed network path.

  • Click “Permissions”, ensure “Everyone” has “Change” and “Read” permissions, then click “OK” to save.

  • Press Win+R, type cmd and press Enter. In the Command Prompt, enter ipconfig. Locate the IPv4 Address.

Mac Computer Connection and Transfer

  • Open Finder on your Mac.

  • Click the top menu bar: Go → Connect to Server.

  • Enter smb://[Windows IPv4 Address] in the Server Address field (or use the computer name), then click Connect.

  • When the credentials window appears, select “Registered User” and enter the Windows account username and password.

  • Select the shared folder and click “OK”. This folder will appear as a network drive on your Mac desktop or in the Finder sidebar.

  • Drag files directly from your Mac onto this network drive folder. Files will be copied directly over the network to the Windows computer.

Network sharing strikes the optimal balance between speed and convenience. If you have substantial data and both computers are connected to the same router, this will be the swiftest method for transferring files.

 

 

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