How to Employ Samsung Wi-Fi Direct?

Jack

By Jack

Update on

Samsung Wi-Fi Direct

What is a Samsung Wi-Fi Direct? This feature is available on Android smartphones.

Android offers an extensive list of features and settings. Wi-Fi Direct is one of them, which many users tend to ignore.

Overview

Wi-Fi Direct allows cameras, mobile phones, printers, and computers to create their wireless network without having a working internet connection.

Using Wi-Fi Direct, users can connect to other devices to transfer or displaying content. Not just that, but they can even play games or share applications easily and quickly through Wi-Fi Direct. Here, you do not need to connect to a hotspot or a network to connect to nearby devices.

Thus, it is an amazing way to interact with other devices. If you are wondering how this feature is better than Bluetooth, keep reading.

So, let’s see what Wi-Fi Direct is and how this feature can be used to connect different devices wirelessly.

Part 1: Introduction to Wi-Fi Direct

When there is a mention of Wi-Fi, most people think immediately of browsing the internet. However, Wi-Fi Direct is more than just that. So, Wi-Fi Direct is the Wi-Fi Alliance’s certificate, which includes more than 600 members like LG, Microsoft, Apple, Dell, and Intel.

Nowadays, a host of smartphones are Wi-Fi Direct compatible. This includes digital cameras, laptops, and tablets.

Samsung Galaxy S was launched in the year 2010, which was the first mobile device to include Wi-Fi Direct. As of Android 4.0 (or Ice Cream Sandwich), every Android device features Wi-Fi Direct natively.

The Wi-Fi Direct feature can be perceived as a kind of second-generation Wi-Fi. This is because it enables compatible smartphones to form a mutual connection with devices with an internet connection.

Such devices can be modems, routers, or hotspots. Using Wi-Fi Direct, users can wirelessly build a network between different devices.

Additionally, users can use this feature and Miracast for screencast onto other devices with a display. Plus, the latest Wi-Fi Direct is even NFC compatible.

PS: let’s figure out how to use Miracast for Windows 7.


Part 2: Why Should You Employ Samsung Wi-Fi Direct?

As stated above, Wi-Fi Direct enables devices without an internet connection to connect to the device. When it comes to Android smartphones and other devices, one can connect them and transfer files quickly without using cables.

So, can Wi-Fi Direct be called a glorified form of Bluetooth? It can or cannot be. The benefit of employing Wi-Fi Direct over Bluetooth is that the transfer speeds and Wi-Fi range are remarkably higher than Bluetooth. In short, you can go with Wi-Fi Direct if looking for a better method to transfer files between devices.

On Android smartphones, you can employ Samsung Wi-Fi Direct for sharing files. This is an incredible alternative to sharing files through Bluetooth. This is because Bluetooth has slower transfer speeds and smaller range capabilities.

Wi-Fi Direct can connect more than two tablets or smartphones. So, there is no requirement for an internet connection. The main uses of Samsung Wi-Fi Direct are screencasting, printing documents, and sharing files on Android smartphones.

Now, let’s see how you can use this amazing feature on Android devices. The methods listed here work for Samsung devices running on Android 10, 9, 8, and 7.

Besides, let’s learn more about how to fix issues like the Samsung Smart Switch not working.


Part 3: How to Use Samsung Wi-Fi Direct

So, are you wondering about how to employ Samsung Wi-Fi Direct on your device? If so, then it is super easy to do so.

One can use this feature to connect to other devices and transfer files to other devices in the following manner.

Employ on Android Nougat, Oreo, and Pie

Go through the instructions below to connect to other devices with Samsung Wi-Fi Direct.

Step 1: Open Settings

First, visit ‘Settings’ on your device and click on the Connections option.

Step 2: Click on ‘Wi-Fi’

From there, click on the ‘Wi-Fi’ tab.

Employ Wi-Fi Direct on Android Nougat, Oreo, and Pie

Step 3: Choose Wi-Fi Direct

After that, select the ‘Wi-Fi Direct’ option. Ensure that the Wi-Fi Direct feature has been enabled on all devices. Also, ensure that they are visible.

Step 4: Choose the device

In the section ‘Available Devices,’ select the device you want to connect to.

Step 5: Connect your device

Now, your devices are connected through Wi-Fi Direct. Once connected, the device name will be displayed in blue font. You need to click on the device’s name once to disconnect the device.

Connect Wifi Direct Device

So, this is how you can connect to other devices through Wi-Fi Direct. If you like to transfer files between devices, then keep reading.

Employ Samsung Wi-Fi Direct for Sending Files Between Devices

Samsung tablets and smartphones work perfectly well with the Wi-Fi Direct feature. Earlier devices like Galaxy S6/S5 can hassle-free connect with the latest models such as Galaxy S21/S20.

To connect your devices through Samsung Wi-Fi Direct, follow the steps given below:

Step 1: Tap on the ‘Share’ option

First, you need to open the file you like to send. For this, tap and hold the file. After that, click on the ‘Share’ button on the right side.

Employ Samsung Wi-Fi Direct for Sending Files Between Devices

Step 2: Select Wi-Fi Direct

Click on the ‘Wi-Fi Direct’ option from a list of options.

Select Wi-Fi Direct

Step 3: Tap on ‘Share’ 

Under the ‘Available Devices’ section, click on the tablet or phone you like to send the file. Once selected, you need to tap on the ‘Share’ tab.

Tap on Share

Please note that if you like to print the file, choose the Wi-Fi Direct supported printer. If you like to cast the screen of your tablet or phone to the TV, click on Wi-Fi Direct TV.

Step 1: Select ‘File Received’

You must select the ‘File received’ notification on your receiving device.

Step 2: View the file

Under this file list, click on the file you received for opening or viewing.

View File Received

Step 3: Transfer the file

On your sending device, a notification appears, notifying you that your file has been transferred successfully.

Transfer files Using Samsung Wi-Fi Direct

Kindly remember to disable Samsung Wi-Fi Direct when you are finished through it to save power. To disable Wi-Fi Direct, you need to disconnect from all paired smartphones.

Every Android mobile device runs on Android 4.0 or above and features Wi-Fi Direct functionality. However, there are some very rare exceptions. While your system’s user interface may vary, setting the functionality up is relatively unified and simple over all the devices.

Unlike Bluetooth, there is no button or anything you like to select to switch on Wi-Fi Direct. Wi-Fi Direct is switched on the moment you get access to a stable internet connection.

This does not mean that Samsung Wi-Fi Direct is enabled at all times. When you select the ‘ Wi-Fi Direct ‘ option, your device only begins scanning for nearby smartphones to connect to.

Please note that users have to switch on the Wi-Fi Direct option on their television, laptop, printer, or other devices to which they want to connect. Also, activate this feature on your smartphone using the instructions above.

Part 4: Troubleshooting Samsung Wi-Fi Direct

If you encounter any issues while using Samsung Wi-Fi Direct, try the following troubleshooting steps:

  1. Ensure that Wi-Fi Direct is enabled on both devices.
  2. Make sure that both devices are within close proximity for a strong and stable connection.
  3. Restart both devices and try connecting again.
  4. Check for software updates on your Samsung device and install them if available.
  5. Disable any third-party firewall or security applications that might be interfering with the connection.

Part 5: Tips for Optimal Performance

To get the most out of Samsung Wi-Fi Direct, consider the following tips:

  1. Keep the devices within a reasonable distance to maintain a stable connection.
  2. Avoid interference from other Wi-Fi networks or electronic devices.
  3. Regularly update your Samsung device’s software to ensure compatibility and performance improvements.
  4. Use a file manager app to organize and manage your transferred files efficiently.
  5. Disconnect from Wi-Fi Direct when not in use to conserve battery life.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use Samsung Wi-Fi Direct to transfer files to non-Samsung devices?

A1: Samsung Wi-Fi Direct is primarily designed for Samsung devices, but some non-Samsung devices may also support Wi-Fi Direct. However, compatibility may vary, so it’s best to check the device’s specifications before attempting a transfer.

Q2: Is Samsung Wi-Fi Direct secure?

A2: Yes, Samsung Wi-Fi Direct provides a secure connection between devices. The files transferred through Wi-Fi Direct are encrypted, ensuring that they remain private and protected.

Q3: Can I transfer large files using Samsung Wi-Fi Direct?

A3: Yes, Samsung Wi-Fi Direct allows you to transfer large files efficiently. However, the transfer speed may depend on various factors such as the file size, device compatibility, and signal strength.

Q4: Does using Samsung Wi-Fi Direct consume data from my cellular plan?

A4: No, Samsung Wi-Fi Direct does not consume cellular data. It creates a direct connection between devices without requiring an internet connection.

Q5: Can I use Samsung Wi-Fi Direct while connected to a Wi-Fi network?

A5: No, Samsung Wi-Fi Direct requires you to disconnect from any Wi-Fi network before using it. It creates its own temporary Wi-Fi network for device-to-device communication.

Final Words

So, Wi-Fi Direct is an amazing feature that lets you wirelessly connect to other devices. Also, it offers an incredible way to transfer files to other devices seamlessly.

Compared to Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Direct offers better range capabilities and transfer speeds. So, use Samsung Wi-Fi Direct to connect your Samsung devices to others.

To perform this task, follow the methods listed above! Now, share content hassle-free through Wi-Fi Direct.

Jack
Jack

Ten years of experience in information and computer technology. Passionate about electronic devices, smartphones, computers, and modern technology.

THERE’S MORE TO READ.