How to Connect an Android to a PC

This article explains how to connect your PC and Android. It covers the traditional method of using a cable and also some wireless techniques.

Ways to Connect an Android to a Computer

There are several options. The most common approach is to use a USB cable, but there are a number of wireless solutions that work just as well.

Most Android devices come with a USB charging cable. This is often the easiest way for most people to transfer files from their Android device to their computer. If you don't have your USB cable with you or prefer a wireless solution, these are the ways you can connect an Android to a PC without a cable:

• AirDroid app: This popular app uses your home network to establish a connection between your computer and Android device.
• Bluetooth: Most modern computers have Bluetooth available. You can use Bluetooth to transfer files from your Android.
• Microsoft's Link to Windows app: Microsoft offers a free app that provides an easy way to connect your Windows 11 computer to your Android.

Connect an Android to a PC With USB

Plugging your Android into a PC with a USB cable is easy, but it only allows you to transfer files back and forth. You can't remotely control your Android using this connection. If you want to copy photos and videos from your phone to your computer, this is the easiest way to do it.

1. Connect one end of the USB cable to your Android and the other to your computer.

   Many computers don't support USB-C. If your Android's cable has USB-C on both ends, you'll need an adapter or a different cable.

2. Watch for a notification on your Android. You should be able to tap a button that says Transfer files (or something similar). If you don't see that prompt, go to Settings > Connected devices > USB and choose it there; it might be called File transfer.

3. On your computer, open This PC to see your Android device. It's likely named after your phone, such as Pixel 8. It works like any folder, so double-click it to see the files and folders that are viewable on your Android.

   

Connect an Android to a PC With AirDroid

AirDroid is an impressive app because it allows you to not only transfer files to and from your Android, but it also includes a number of remote control features.

1. Install AirDroid from Google Play onto your Android.

2. Open the app and enable the features you plan to use. For example, the app will ask for access to your files, but you can also enable remote control access, desktop notifications, etc. Go to Me > Security & Remote Features for a list of features you can turn on.

   Some features are disabled unless you purchase the Premium plan or have root access to the device. There's also a monthly data limit imposed on free users.

3. Open the Transfer tab, then tap AirDroid Web.

4. On your computer, open the URL listed in the app (the IP address followed by some numbers), then tap Scan QR Code in the app and scan the code you see on the AirDroid website to log in.

   

   Can't access that URL? You can make an AirDroid account (it's free) and then log in to it in the app and on your computer at web.airdroid.com.

5. To use AirDroid to connect to your Android, select one of the apps. For example, Files lets you browse the files on your phone and transfer files back and forth.

   

Connect an Android to a PC With Bluetooth

If you want to connect your computer to your Android to transfer a few files, Bluetooth is an excellent option because it requires no cables and the transfers are easy to initiate.

1. Turn on Bluetooth on your Android via Settings > Connected devices > Connection preferences > Bluetooth.

2. Set up your Android as a Bluetooth device from your computer. You'll be asked to confirm that the pairing code on your computer matches the one on your phone. If it does, accept the prompts on both devices.
   

   

3. To transfer files to your Android over Bluetooth, right-click the Bluetooth icon next to the clock, then choose Send a File or Receive a File.

   

4. Select your Android from the list of available Bluetooth devices.

   

5. Browse for the file you want to transfer to your Android, then choose Open > Next.

   

6. Wait while your PC sends the file to your Android. You'll need to press Accept on your Android to receive it.

   

Connect an Android to a PC With Microsoft Your Phone

Another convenient cloud-based service that lets you manage calls and texts and view notifications from your phone, is a free app from Microsoft called Link to Windows. It pairs with a Windows app called Phone Link. Here's how to set it up:

1. Install Link to Windows on your Android and Phone Link on Windows.

   The Windows app is preinstalled if you're running Windows 11 v22H2 or higher. Search for it from the taskbar to open it.

2. Open Phone Link and select Android on the first screen.

   

3. On your Android, open Link to Windows and tap Sign in using the QR code on your PC.

4. Tap While using the app to accept the camera permissions prompt.

5. Using the app's built-in camera function, scan the QR code that's in the Phone Link desktop app.

   

6. Tap Continue on your phone, then enter the code provided in the Phone Link app to pair the two.

7. Tap Allow on all the prompts to give the app permission to access your messages, contacts, etc.

   

8. On the final page of the mobile app, tap Done. On the Windows app, click Continue.

   

9. Your Android is now connected to your PC. Use the Messages, Calls, and Photos tabs along the top of Phone Link to see those items from your phone.