Networking two Windows 7 PCs via BlueTooth while connected to HotSpot?

nigelmercier · 23 Apr 2012

I have two Windows 7 PCs on my boat (OK I admit it, I'm a geek!). Normally they are connected to the Internet via a 3G Wireless Router; they are therefore on the same Home network, so I can access the shared folders between them.

However, occasionally I connect at least one of them to a WiFi HotSpot, to save my monthly 3G download limit. Even if I connect both of them, I can't access the shared folders, as it would be foolish to designate a Public network as a Home network.

Is it possible to maintain a permanent BlueTooth network between them, regardless of what they are doing via WiFi?

chev65 · 23 Apr 2012

You can turn one of those machines into a secondary WIFI hotspot so you can share files when connected to your other WIFI hotspot.

First link is the manual method for setting this up this secondary network, the second link is for using the connectify software. Either way works.

Only official Windows 7 wireless network drivers are capable of supporting this feature.

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Use Wireless Hosted Networking to Share An Internet Connection Wirelessly

Your Hotspot, Your Way - Connectify

nigelmercier · 23 Apr 2012

chev65 said:

You can turn one of those machines into a secondary WIFI hotspot ...

But this means that the master will have to be on for the slave to work. I need to have them connected together via Bluetooth, and at liberty to change their AP without affecting the other.

chev65 · 23 Apr 2012

nigelmercier said:

chev65 said:

You can turn one of those machines into a secondary WIFI hotspot ...

But this means that the master will have to be on for the slave to work. I need to have them connected together via Bluetooth, and at liberty to change their AP without affecting the other.

Yep I know what your saying but that's as good as you will get. :)

suspect008 · 23 Apr 2012

I don't know much about networking. but as I have a kind of experience to share I am posting here. While Im connected to my institute network via wifi and while doing downloads, I tried send some mp3s to my phone via blutooth but the speed sucks. it was only reported maximum of 20kbps for 5 or less seconds and always stayed under 15kbps. I had this while Im connected to my home wifi too. don't know its just affecting only me and others maybe not. I use broadcom wifi blutooth combined module in my g6 and when Im not connected to any network, blutooth goes up like 250kbps or more on my phone. My suggestion is if youre planing on transfer files between(large files :)) your computers, blutooth will be a option which will bring you real pain for the slow speeds. Connectify is the best solution, I myself using it much oftentimes, but not sure that free version allows for file transfer protocols. good luck!