844-897-3935Local Linking is an older TypeWell feature that allows a transcriber to send a real-time transcript to one or more nearby computers over a shared local network, without using the internet. It requires the TypeWell Reader software to be installed on each reader device and only works when all devices are connected to the same SSID (network name).
⚠️ Note: Local Linking is considered a legacy feature and is no longer recommended for most setups. It is not supported on many newer Windows laptops due to networking limitations. Instead, we recommend Internal Linking, which offers similar offline functionality using only a web browser on the reader device.
How Local Linking works
Local Linking uses an existing WiFi or LAN (wired) network to connect the transcriber’s computer with other devices running TypeWell Reader. All computers must be on the same local network.
Examples of compatible networks:
- A campus WiFi network (same SSID)
- A home or office wireless router
- A wired LAN connection
- In rare cases, a Bluetooth PAN or hosted/virtual network*
Some peer-to-peer network types, such as ad hoc IBSS, are no longer supported in Windows 8.1 (and newer) without special drivers. See known issues here.
Steps to use Local Linking
- Connect all devices to the same local network or WiFi SSID.
- On the transcriber's computer, open the Link menu in TypeWell Transcriber and select "By Local network/WiFi..."
- In the dialog box, choose a subnet name to identify the session (you can make one up). Be sure to check the "Enabled" box to activate the link.
- On each reader’s computer (with TypeWell Reader installed), open the Link menu and follow the same steps—entering the same subnet name.
Once connected, the transcript will appear in real time on the reader computers.
Why Local Linking is being phased out
- It requires installing separate software (TypeWell Reader) on each device.
- It only works if all devices are on the same SSID, which can be restrictive in many environments.
- It depends on older Windows networking features that are no longer supported on most new laptops.
- Internal Linking offers a more reliable alternative, with broader device compatibility and no software install required for readers.
Still need to use Local Linking?
If you’re in a controlled environment with compatible devices and software, Local Linking may still work for your setup. But if you're encountering connection issues or need a more modern alternative, check out Internal Linking or contact us for help choosing the best method.