Transfer files over an Ethernet patch cable

Connecting two computers via Ethernet allows for transferring files directly without relying on cloud storage or USB flash drives. The process involves a simple configuration on both machines, adding IP addresses and setting the network interface up. Ping tests can verify the connection, and data transfer can begin using tools like socat and dd.

Ethernet cables, even basic ones, can achieve speeds of around 900 Mbps, making them significantly faster than USB or cloud storage options. High-end network cards can boost speeds further, but this is unnecessary for most use cases. Compared to WiFi, Ethernet provides stable, high-speed connections despite potential interference or distance issues.

While USB offers similar speeds under ideal conditions, it's often limited by cable quality and connector limitations. For USB-C devices, direct connection using Thunderbolt or USB 4 can also achieve gigabit speeds, but Ethernet remains the most reliable and inexpensive option for transferring large files between PCs.