How to Transfer Files from iPhone to Windows PC Using VLC Player (2025 Guide)
Transferring files from your iPhone to a Windows PC can sometimes feel like a puzzle—especially when iTunes or iCloud isn’t cooperating. But did you know VLC Player, the popular media app, can help you move files wirelessly?
In this guide, I’ll walk you through:
✅ Step-by-step setup (iPhone + Windows PC)
✅ Troubleshooting tips
✅ Alternative methods if VLC doesn’t work
Let’s get your files moving!

Step 1: Install & Set Up VLC on iPhone & Windows
On Your iPhone:
- Download VLC for Mobile from the App Store.
- Open the app and tap “Network” at the bottom.
- Enable “Wi-Fi Upload” (this turns your iPhone into a local server).
📌 Note: Your iPhone and PC must be on the same Wi-Fi network.
On Your Windows PC:
- Download VLC Media Player from videolan.org.
- Install and open it.
Step 2: Connect iPhone to PC via Wi-Fi
- On your iPhone, open vlc player> go to network > on sharing via Wi-Fi >note the IP address shown (e.g.,
192.168.1.10
). - On your Windows PC, open any internet browser and type the address in the navigation bar [iPhone’s IP Address] (Example:
\\192.168.1.10
) - Press Enter – you should see a folder named “VLC”.

Step 3: Transfer Files from iPhone to PC
- On iPhone:
- Open VLC > Network > Wi-Fi Upload.
- Tap “Upload Files” and select the files you want to transfer.
- On PC:
- Open the VLC folder in File Explorer.
- Drag and drop files from the VLC folder to your desktop or any folder.
📌 Pro Tip: For faster transfers, use a 5GHz Wi-Fi network.

Troubleshooting: Common Issues & Fixes
🔹 “Can’t access iPhone folder” → Check firewall settings on PC.
🔹 “Connection failed” → Ensure both devices are on the same network.
🔹 Slow transfers? → Restart Wi-Fi router.
Alternative Methods if VLC Doesn’t Work
1. iCloud Drive (Best for Documents & Photos)
- Upload files to iCloud Drive on iPhone → Access via iCloud.com on PC.
2. iTunes File Sharing (For Media Files)
- Connect iPhone via USB → Open iTunes > File Sharing > VLC → Drag files to PC.
3. Snapdrop (Wireless, No App Needed)
- Visit Snapdrop.net on both iPhone & PC → Drag and drop files.
VLC Player is a hidden gem for wireless file transfers between iPhone and Windows. While it’s not as fast as a USB cable, it’s super convenient when you need a quick, cable-free solution.
Tried this method? Let me know how it worked for you in the comments!
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(Questions? Drop them below—I’ll help!) 😊