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Intel Thunderbolt Share lets you use one Windows PC’s keyboard and mouse to control another, share screens and storage, and move or synchronize files between the computers. To use it, install the software on both supported PCs, connect them directly with a Thunderbolt 4 or Thunderbolt 5 cable or through a compatible Thunderbolt accessory, and make sure at least one PC or accessory in the setup has a manufacturer-provided Thunderbolt Share license.
What Thunderbolt Share does
Thunderbolt Share is Intel software for PC-to-PC workflows. Intel describes using one computer’s keyboard and mouse to control the other, sharing screens and storage, dragging and dropping files, synchronizing folders, and migrating files from an old PC to a new one. Intel announced the software in 2024 for people who work across two PCs, such as a laptop and desktop.
Intel says the direct connection does not need Wi-Fi or the cloud. That is Intel general manager Ben Hacker’s characterization of the product, not an independent security assessment. Avoid treating it as a security guarantee: the available product information does not establish security properties beyond describing the connection and workflows.
What you need to use it
- Two supported PCs: Each must have a Thunderbolt 4 or Thunderbolt 5 port, and Thunderbolt Share must be installed on both. Intel’s download page lists supported platforms beginning with 11th Generation Intel Core processors with Thunderbolt 4, and higher generations.
- A connection: For a direct setup, use a Thunderbolt 4 or Thunderbolt 5 cable. Alternatively, connect both PCs through a compatible Thunderbolt dock, monitor, or storage accessory.
- A manufacturer license: At least one PC or Thunderbolt accessory in the connection must be licensed for Thunderbolt Share by its manufacturer. The license is tied to selected PCs or accessories; Intel’s FAQ says it is not a general software license sold separately.
- Windows and drivers: Intel’s download page lists Windows 11 and Windows 10 for PC migration only. Its FAQ describes Windows 11 and newer as supported for general use, so do not assume Windows 10 supports the other workflows. The download page also lists Intel graphics driver version 31.0.101.4826 or higher; Intel recommends current OS updates and OEM or Microsoft drivers.
These are product requirements, not a guarantee that every device with a Thunderbolt port will work. Intel says Thunderbolt 4 or 5 PCs and accessories are supported, but performance can vary by platform. Confirm the precise PC, dock, monitor, or storage model’s Thunderbolt Share license with its manufacturer.
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How to connect two PCs
- Check both computers. Confirm that each has a Thunderbolt 4 or Thunderbolt 5 port, a supported Windows setup for the workflow you want, and current drivers. Check with the manufacturer which PC or accessory carries the Thunderbolt Share license.
- Install Thunderbolt Share on both PCs. Intel lists installation on both computers as a requirement.
- Connect the computers. For a direct link, connect them with a Thunderbolt 4 or 5 cable. For an accessory-based setup, connect both PCs through a Thunderbolt dock or monitor that supports Thunderbolt Share licensing.
- Open the application or connect the cable. Intel says the main menu appears once the software establishes the connection and verifies that at least one PC or accessory in the setup is licensed.
A Thunderbolt 4 cable is a straightforward choice for a direct connection, but the cable alone does not provide the required license. Check the ports on both PCs and verify the cable’s Thunderbolt specification before buying.
Which setup makes sense?
| Setup | What you need | What to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Direct PC-to-PC | Two PCs with Thunderbolt 4 or 5 ports, Thunderbolt Share installed on both, and a Thunderbolt 4 or 5 cable | At least one of the PCs must carry the manufacturer’s Thunderbolt Share license |
| Through a dock, monitor, or storage accessory | Two supported PCs connected through a compatible Thunderbolt accessory | Confirm that the exact accessory model is licensed for Thunderbolt Share; a Thunderbolt connection by itself does not establish licensing |
Choose based on the ports and licensed hardware you already have, as well as the task: peripheral control, file transfer, folder synchronization, or migration. Intel describes high bandwidth and low latency, but its reviewed product material does not provide a named numerical benchmark for Thunderbolt Share performance.
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Will it work with older Thunderbolt PCs?
Intel’s FAQ says Thunderbolt 4 or 5 PCs and accessories can work, while cautioning that performance varies across platforms. That does not mean an older PC with an earlier Thunderbolt generation is supported. Check the exact model and its license with the manufacturer before relying on Thunderbolt Share.
Quick Recap
Best Value
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- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
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What to check if it does not connect
- No main menu appears: Confirm that Thunderbolt Share is installed on both PCs, the cable or accessory connection is in place, and at least one device in the setup has a manufacturer license.
- A PC or accessory is not recognized as eligible: Verify the Thunderbolt generation and license for that exact model with its manufacturer. Do not infer eligibility from a Thunderbolt port alone.
- A workflow is unavailable on Windows 10: Intel documents Windows 10 for PC migration only on its download page; its FAQ lists Windows 11 and newer for general use.
- Connection or transfer performance differs: Intel notes platform variation. Its cited product material does not quantify expected performance, so results cannot be predicted from a published Thunderbolt Share benchmark.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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