Mac: Activate AirDrop - Here's how

AirDrop lets you transfer files from one Mac to another. We show you where to activate the function, which requirements must be met and how to use the feature.

AirDrop on Mac - the requirements

To use AirDrop, you need at least the OS X Lion operating system on your Mac. In addition, your WLAN card must support the function. How to find out if this is the case:

1. In the "Finder" go to "Programs"> "Utilities".
2. Select "System information" and go to the entry "WLAN" under the heading "Network" on the left.
3. Under "Interfaces" you will see the entry "AirDrop" in the third line from the bottom. If it says "Supported", you can use AirDrop (see picture).

Activate AirDrop on Mac or MacBook

Open the "Finder", you will see the entry "AirDrop" in the left bar with a hot air balloon as a symbol. If this is not the case, you must first activate the feature:

1. Open the "Finder" and click on "Finder"> "Settings ..." in the menu bar at the top.
2. Switch to the third tab "Sidebar" and tick "AirDrop".

Transfer files with AirDrop

To transfer files to another Mac, both computers must be on the same WiFi network. In addition, both must have selected "AirDrop" in the "Finder".

1. In the opened AirDrop window you can see the other user (see picture). Drag the desired file onto its profile picture.
2. Confirm the security question with "Send".
3. Your transmission partner will then also receive a security question, which he must answer with "Save and open" or only "Save".

Read how to activate and use AirDrop under iOS 7 on this practical tips page.