LocalSend

LocalSend is an open-source, cross-platform file-sharing tool designed for fast and secure transfers without relying on the internet or external servers.

Unlike cloud-based services, it uses local Wi-Fi or LAN connections and establishes peer-to-peer transfers with HTTPS encryption.



This makes it especially valuable in situations where privacy, security, or network independence are essential.

Whether you need to move a document between a PC and a phone or share large files across multiple devices, LocalSend for Windows PC provides a straightforward solution.

Main Features

• Peer-to-peer transfers without a central server.
• Cross-platform support for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.
• End-to-end encryption with dynamically generated TLS/SSL certificates.
• No account required - instant use with no registration.
• Unlimited file size - transfer small text files or large video projects.
• Automatic device discovery on the same network.
• Favorites list for trusted devices with auto-accept transfers.
• Portable mode and hidden start options for power users.

User Interface

The UI is minimalistic and intuitive. Two primary options - Send and Receive - sit at the heart of the design. Selecting files or folders is as simple as browsing your local directories, while the receiving side displays pending requests clearly.



The clean layout ensures that even non-technical users can start transferring files without confusion.

Installation and Setup

On Windows and macOS, installation is quick and lightweight. After downloading the installer from the official site, FileHorse.com or GitHub, LocalSend runs with no additional configuration.

Most networks work out of the box, though firewall rules may need to allow communication on port 53317 (TCP/UDP). Users should also ensure AP isolation is disabled on their router, otherwise devices may not see each other.

Advanced options include creating a settings.json file for portable mode or launching the app hidden in the system tray with the hidden flag.

How to Use

• Install LocalSend on both devices.
• Connect both devices to the same Wi-Fi or LAN.
• On the sending device, click Send, select files, and choose the target device.
• The recipient confirms the transfer (or receives automatically if trusted).
• Files are delivered directly, encrypted end-to-end.

For bulk or multi-device transfers, users can broadcast files to all devices on the local network or generate a link that others can use to download the file while the app remains open.

FAQs

Do I need an internet connection to use LocalSend?
No, LocalSend works fully offline using your local Wi-Fi or LAN.

Is there a file size limit?
No, you can send anything from small notes to multi-gigabyte video files.

Can I share files between different platforms?
Yes, it supports Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.

Is my data secure during transfers?
Yes, every transfer is encrypted with HTTPS and temporary TLS/SSL certificates.

Does LocalSend collect any personal information?
No, it is open-source, ad-free, and does not track or store user data.

Alternatives

Quick Share - Enables you to transfer content saved on your Galaxy device

SHAREit - Free file sharing app that works across multiple OS

Xender - Sharing files, photos, music, videos, even apps without mobile data usage

AirDrop (Apple only) – Seamless on iOS/macOS but not cross-platform.

Pricing

LocalSend is completely FREE and open-source, with no hidden fees, ads, or premium tiers.

Contributions are welcome through its GitHub repository.

System Requirements

• Windows: Windows 11, 10, 8 or 7
• macOS: macOS 10.13 or later
• Linux: Any modern distribution with network support
• Android: Android 6.0+
• iOS: iOS 12.0+

PROS

• Free and open-source
• Cross-platform support
• Fully offline operation
• End-to-end encryption
• Simple and clean UI

CONS

• Requires local network connection
• Not as polished as commercial apps
• Occasional firewall/router tweaks needed
• No built-in cloud backup
• Limited advanced features beyond file sharing

Conclusion

LocalSend is a must-have tool for anyone who values privacy, speed, and simplicity in local file transfers. Its offline nature, combined with robust security, makes it ideal for personal use, workplaces, or environments with sensitive data.

While it lacks the slick polish of commercial alternatives, its open-source transparency and reliability more than compensate. If you’re looking for a lightweight, cross-platform solution to replace cluttered apps or restrictive ecosystems, LocalSend is one of the best options available today.