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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!

(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!

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