How to Use AirDrop for Windows - Mac to PC File Transfer Guide

Complete step-by-step guide for sharing files between Mac and PC on your local network

Quick Tip: This method works for transferring files to Android and Linux devices too!

Prerequisites

Mac with DropLink

DropLink app installed from the Mac App Store (free)

Windows PC

Any Windows computer with a web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, etc.)

Same Network

Both devices connected to the same WiFi network

Step-by-Step Instructions

1Install DropLink on Your Mac

Open the Mac App Store and search for "DropLink" or click here to download directly. The app is free and lightweight.

2Check Network Connection

Make sure both your Mac and Windows PC are connected to the same WiFi network. You can verify this in:

  • Mac: Click WiFi icon in menu bar
  • Windows: Click network icon in system tray

3Select Files to Transfer

Open DropLink on your Mac. You have two options:

  • Drag & Drop: Simply drag files or folders onto the DropLink window
  • Click to Select: Click the "Send" button and choose files from the file picker
Note: Multiple files will be automatically compressed into a ZIP file for easier transfer.

4Share the Transfer Link

DropLink will generate:

  • A QR code that can be scanned
  • A local network URL (like http://192.168.1.100:8080)

Choose the most convenient method for your Windows PC:

  • If your PC has a camera, scan the QR code
  • Otherwise, type the URL into your browser or send it via Bluetooth

5Download Files on Windows

On your Windows PC:

  1. Open any web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, etc.)
  2. Enter the URL or scan the QR code
  3. The download will start automatically
  4. Files will be saved to your Downloads folder
Important: Keep DropLink open on your Mac until the transfer is complete. The connection will close automatically after the download finishes.

Common Questions

Why can't my Windows PC access the link?

Make sure:

  • Both devices are on the same WiFi network
  • Your Mac's firewall isn't blocking DropLink
  • You're using the correct URL (it should start with http://)
  • DropLink is still open on your Mac
Can I transfer folders?

Yes! When you drag a folder into DropLink, it automatically creates a ZIP file maintaining the folder structure. The Windows PC will download this ZIP file which can be extracted.

Is there a file size limit?

No, DropLink has no file size limits. You can transfer large video files, entire photo libraries, or any other large files. The transfer speed depends on your local network speed.

Alternative Methods

Other ways to transfer files from Mac to Windows

Cloud Services

Pros: Works over internet
Cons: Slow, size limits, privacy concerns

USB Drive

Pros: Simple, no network needed
Cons: Requires physical drive, manual process

Network Sharing

Pros: Built into OS
Cons: Complex setup, permission issues

Why DropLink is Better: No configuration needed, works instantly, maintains privacy, and transfers at full network speed.

Start Transferring Files in Seconds

Join thousands who use DropLink for easy Mac to Windows file transfers.