How to share media files from a PC to an Android device with VLC

Did you know that you can stream media content from a Windows computer to your Android device?

This skill can enhance your media consumption experience. Whether you're watching a movie from your tablet in bed or enjoying your favorite songs remotely, streaming from your Windows PC to your Android device can be incredibly convenient. Fortunately, VLC Media Player makes this process straightforward.

1. Download VLC Media Player

You need to download VLC for both your computer and your Android device. You can find the Android version on the Play Store. Below are links to download VLC for different platforms:

Platform Download Link
VLC Media Player for Linux Download
VLC Media Player for Mac Download
VLC Media Player Portable Download

2. Allow VLC to Work in the Background

To listen to music in the background while using other applications, adjust your VLC app settings:

  1. Open the VLC application.
  2. Tap on the three line icons
  3. Select Preferences and enable Play videos in background.

VLC Settings

3. Share Files from Your Computer

To share files, you'll need to set up file sharing on your Windows computer. The easiest way is by using the HomeGroup feature.

Create a HomeGroup

Access HomeGroup settings through the Control Panel or Windows 10 Settings. Follow these steps:

  1. Open the Start Menu and search for HomeGroup.
  2. Select Create a homegroup.

Create HomeGroup

Choose the files and folders you wish to share and enable access as needed.

Grant Access to Your Phone

Once you create the HomeGroup, ensure your phone can access it:

  1. After clicking Finish, under Libraries and Devices, select Allow all devices on this network.
  2. If prompted, click Allow all in the upper right corner.

Grant Access

4. Play Content on Your Mobile Device

After setup, open the VLC app on your phone:

  1. Select Local Network from the menu.
  2. Find your HomeGroup and navigate through shared folders to access your media.

Local Network in VLC

5. Access Remote Computers

If you need access to more data beyond media files, consider using Chrome Remote Desktop:

  1. Open Chrome, click on Get started under My Computers.
  2. Select Enable remote connections and create a PIN.

Chrome Remote Desktop Setup

Conclusion

This guide has shown you how to transfer media files from a Windows computer to your Android device using VLC Media Player. Enjoy accessing your music and videos seamlessly from anywhere in your home!

Sign up and earn $1000 a day ⋙

37 Comments

  1. Emma_24 -

    Hey! Just tried sharing a file. Worked in seconds, no lag! This is definitely a keeper

  2. Jake123 -

    I had no idea VLC could do this! Just when I thought I knew everything about the software. Amazing!

  3. Hannah G. -

    Can anyone else confirm if this works with music files too? Would love to share my playlists

  4. Franky -

    Anyone else experience slow transfers? My files take forever sometimes. Is there a fix for that

  5. Nina_J -

    I was skeptical at first, but this is legit! Thanks for the detailed insights.

  6. DanielC -

    Would love an update on newer versions of VLC. Any new features regarding file sharing

  7. Dodger89 -

    Your article has made my life ten times easier. Now I can share my design files quick

  8. Vadim_V -

    This guide is fantastic! But can you add some troubleshooting tips? I ran into a few hiccups

  9. Rachel_Th -

    This made my day! Just shared my photo library to my Android, and it was effortless.

  10. Sara Lee -

    Does this method require Wi-Fi? My PC and phone are on different networks. Just want to make sure

  11. Mike_W -

    The simplicity of this method is a lifesaver! I used to dread transferring media files!

  12. Anna Smith -

    Thanks for the tips! I didn't know VLC could share media files like this. Going to try it right now

  13. Lily_Petals -

    Has anyone tried to share a file while on Bluetooth? Can it be done without interruptions

  14. Eric87 -

    Question: If I'm sharing a file while in another app on my phone, will it interrupt the transfer

  15. Sam-writes -

    I love the step-by-step approach. You’ve made it so easy for newcomers to VLC

  16. SandyCar -

    Can this be used for non-media files as well? Might need to transfer documents later

  17. Leo_the_cat -

    Lol! Just called my cat VLC after reading this. It's adorable how certain names stick!

  18. Nick_P -

    I’ll definitely share this article with my friends. They always ask me how to transfer files

  19. David_K -

    I just tried this method and it worked like a charm! Thanks for sharing!

  20. CathyD -

    I must say I’m pleasantly surprised by how easy it is to share files using VLC. Kudos!

  21. John Doe -

    Great article! I've been looking for ways to transfer files between my PC and Android device. VLC really makes it simple

  22. Tommy94 -

    Can anyone tell me if this works with large files? My videos are usually over 1GB!

  23. Chris_91 -

    This article is perfect! I'm constantly transferring files between devices and this makes it so seamless!

  24. AlexB_88 -

    OMG, I’m so happy I found this solution! It makes managing my media files so much easier

  25. Cathy_B -

    Such a useful guide! I appreciate how you explained every step. VLC is my go-to player

  26. Jenny_L -

    VLC is such a powerful tool! I never realized how many features it has

  27. Rita_77 -

    This was a game changer for me. I usually just use USB, which is such a hassle. VLC for the win!

  28. Andy_B -

    Love this! Just transferred my favorite series using VLC. Best decision ever

  29. Lucy_G -

    Loved your article! Just followed it and shared a movie to my phone in no time!

  30. Peaceful_Soul -

    I have to say, the entire process went so smoothly, just like you said! Thank you

  31. Emily74 -

    This is exactly what I needed. Transferring high-quality media is never easy. VLC makes it so much easier

  32. Kate_S -

    Your article is spot on! I’ve always struggled to share files between devices. VLC saves me time

  33. Mia_N -

    I found it super helpful! I usually use Dropbox, but it gets full fast. VLC is a great alternative.

  34. BenLovesMusic -

    If you have any recommendations for other apps for file sharing, please let me know

  35. Oliver_X -

    Came here from YouTube recommendations. This is the best quick guide I found!

  36. Jessy_B好 -

    Works well! I appreciate you pointing out the steps clearly. Makes it a breeze

  37. Zombie_56 -

    I've always thought VLC is just a media player. Now it's a file transfer tool too? Mind blown!

Leave a Comment

Instructions to register for Google One AI Premium for free for 1 month

Instructions to register for Google One AI Premium for free for 1 month

Google One AI Premium is offering a 1-month free trial for users to sign up and experience many upgraded features such as the Gemini Advanced assistant.

How to turn off recent searches on Safari

How to turn off recent searches on Safari

Starting with iOS 18.4, Apple allows users to decide whether to show recent searches in Safari.

Sports Data Analytics Creates New Business Revenue Opportunities

Sports Data Analytics Creates New Business Revenue Opportunities

Discover how professional sports teams use data analytics to boost revenue, improve performance, and create innovative income streams in modern athletics.

Instructions for editing screen recording videos on Snipping Tool

Instructions for editing screen recording videos on Snipping Tool

Windows 11 has integrated the Clipchamp video editor on Snipping Tool so that users can edit videos as they want, without having to use other applications.

How to create funnel chart in PowerPoint

How to create funnel chart in PowerPoint

Funnel charts typically depict how different stages merge into a smaller output. Here's how to create a funnel chart in PowerPoint.

How to clear clipboard on iPhone

How to clear clipboard on iPhone

The Clipboard tool on iPhone will store images or data. However, when you save too much information, it can affect your privacy. If so, you can set a shortcut to clear the clipboard.

Instructions for creating an Apple ID account for children

Instructions for creating an Apple ID account for children

To ensure children's safety when using the phone, parents can create an Apple ID account for their children through the Family Sharing feature on iPhone.

How to Recall Instagram Messages

How to Recall Instagram Messages

When chatting via direct message on Instagram, sometimes we accidentally send the wrong message, we can recall the Instagram message before the other person reads the content so that no one knows.

How to hide ads on Safari without an app

How to hide ads on Safari without an app

When you update to iOS 18 beta 5, you will be able to use the feature of hiding ads in Safari to avoid distraction when reading web content.

Gemini chat sharing guide

Gemini chat sharing guide

Google Gemini now allows users to share their conversations with others via a public link similar to sharing chats on ChatGPT.

Instructions for earning Microsoft Rewards points to receive offers

Instructions for earning Microsoft Rewards points to receive offers

The Microsoft Rewards program rewards users with points they earn for offers from brands they partner with. Here's one way you can earn Microsoft Rewards points.

Instructions on how to play and equip Aya season S1 2023

Instructions on how to play and equip Aya season S1 2023

Aya is a support champion with a rather annoying playstyle and is often banned in ranked matches. However, if you have the opportunity to bring Aya into ranked matches, this article will help you grasp the formula for playing Aya effectively.

Instructions for using Metro HCMC to look up Metro routes

Instructions for using Metro HCMC to look up Metro routes

To make it easier to find information on Metro Line 1, users should install the Metro HCMC application to get information about the stations they need to go to and ticket prices for each route.

Cydia User Guide for iPhone Owners

Cydia User Guide for iPhone Owners

Cydia has become very familiar to users of jailbroken iOS devices. It is a third-party application store that provides users with applications (free and paid) that deeply intervene in the system so that iOS devices can be used more flexibly according to the user's preferences.

Instructions for sending email with file attachments on iPhone

Instructions for sending email with file attachments on iPhone

Just like the Gmail app, the Appe Mail app also has the option to send emails with file attachments to support users in the email sending process.