How do I transfer files and control multiple computers using Logitech Flow?

Applies to / Last updated
Logitech MX Master 3S • Logi Options+ on Windows 10 or 11 and macOS 12 or later • Same local network required • Last updated: 30 October 2025

Problem

You want the cursor to move between two or three computers as if they were one workstation, and you also want to copy text, images, and small files between them. You are unsure how to enable Logitech Flow, what the network requirements are, how drag and drop works, or why transfers sometimes fail.

Solution

Install Logi Options+ on every computer, sign in with the same Logitech account, and pair the MX Master 3S to each device on its own Easy Switch channel. Enable Flow on all computers, place them on the same local network, arrange screens inside Flow, then turn on clipboard and file sharing. Use edge crossing to switch control and copy items with standard copy and paste or by dragging files across the screen edge. If transfers fail, check network, firewall, VPN, and Options+ permissions.

Step-by-step instructions

1) Prepare each computer

  1. Install Logi Options+ on all computers.
  2. Pair the MX Master 3S to each computer on a unique Easy Switch channel.
  3. Sign in to Options+ with the same Logitech account on all computers.
  4. Keep Options+ running in the background.

2) Put computers on the same network

  1. Connect each computer to the same Wi Fi or Ethernet network.
  2. If you use a VPN, disconnect it temporarily or enable split tunneling so local discovery is allowed.

3) Turn on Flow and arrange monitors

  1. In Options+, select your MX Master 3S and open Flow.
  2. Toggle Share keyboard and mouse between computers to On.
  3. Options+ should discover the other signed in computers.
  4. Drag the displays in the Flow layout to match your physical desk arrangement.

4) Move the cursor and switch control

  1. Move the cursor to the edge of Computer A that touches Computer B in the layout.
  2. The cursor crosses to Computer B and the MX Master 3S switches to the correct Easy Switch channel automatically.
  3. Repeat in the other direction to verify control switches back.

5) Enable clipboard and file sharing

  1. In Flow settings, enable Share clipboard to copy and paste text or images between computers.
  2. Enable File sharing to drag and drop small files across the screen edge.
  3. Test by copying a text snippet on Computer A and pasting on Computer B.
  4. Drag a small file to the edge of Computer A toward Computer B and wait for the transfer indicator or confirmation on the target side.

6) Understand file transfer behavior

  1. Flow supports small file transfers and is best for documents, screenshots, and similar items.
  2. Large files move slowly and may be limited by network speed and Flow constraints. Use a shared folder or cloud sync for big transfers.
  3. Some security policies may block cross device clipboard or file sharing. Coordinate with your administrator if Flow is restricted.

7) Optional controls and tuning

  1. In Flow settings, enable a modifier key requirement to cross the edge if you switch accidentally.
  2. Adjust edge sensitivity to reduce unintended switches.
  3. Rename each computer inside Options+ for clarity.

Optional methods or tools

  • Wired Ethernet on both computers for faster discovery and more reliable transfers.
  • USB A extension for a Logi Bolt receiver to place it closer to the mouse if you see lag during crossovers.
  • Alternative transfer paths for large files such as a shared network folder or a cloud drive.

Best practices or tips

  • Keep all systems awake and connected. Sleeping laptops can interrupt Flow.
  • Allow Logi Options+ through any firewall prompts. If you run endpoint security, verify that local network discovery and clipboard sharing are permitted.
  • Avoid using different subnets or VLANs unless your network allows the necessary discovery traffic.
  • Keep Options+ and firmware updated on all machines.
  • If the cursor will not cross, check that both computers appear in the Flow layout and that the MX Master 3S is paired to each on its own channel.

Logitech Flow can make two or three computers feel like a single workspace. Once Flow is enabled and the computers are on the same network, moving your cursor to the screen edge hands off control automatically and keeps your focus on the task. Clipboard sharing covers quick copy and paste, and file sharing is ideal for small items like screenshots, PDFs, and configuration files.

If crossing the edge or transferring files fails, start with fundamentals. Confirm both systems show in Flow, they are on the same network, and Options+ has firewall permission. Disable VPNs for a moment to test, wake any sleeping laptop, and verify that corporate security tools allow local discovery and clipboard features. For large files, switch to a dedicated transfer method and let Flow handle control and small assets.