croc: review, download and setup

Send files from a terminal with a one-time code and verify who is receiving them.

What is croc used for?

croc transmits files between computers using the code that the sender reports to the recipient. The main interface works in the terminal. The project describes end-to-end encryption and connection establishment with the possibility of using the repeater.

The transfer code should be considered a secret for the session. Send it to the right person through the trusted channel. A short, user-friendly code is not an occasion to publish it in general correspondence.

croc: key information
ItemDetails
PlatformsWindows, macOS, Linux; other platforms are listed in the documentation
Use caseSecure file transfer
Download sourceUse the project’s official page and choose the build for your operating system.
Version and termsCurrent builds and conditions of use are given from the developer. The review does not record the unchanged version number.

Send a test file between two computers

Install the croc on both sides and start with a small file. The sender starts the transfer, and the recipient enters the received code. Before confirming, check the file name and save directory.

After completion, open the result. For important data, compare checksums regardless of the success message. If the transmission suddenly came from an unknown person, do not take and do not start the contents.

Download croc from the official website

Select the supported platform on the project page. The link leads to the selection of the distribution, and does not start the installation automatically.

Use the official download address. Check the signature or checksum if the project publishes one. Keep secret configuration files private when contacting support.

Getting started with croc

  1. Download the release for both platforms from the official repository.
  2. Choose a small test file from the sender.
  3. Send the code to the expected recipient only.
  4. Check the file name and confirm the saving.
  5. Check the result and complete the session.

croc interface and illustrations

Limitations and data protection in croc

Network restrictions can affect the direct connection and availability of the repeater. Working on one network does not guarantee the same result in another.

Encryption of the channel does not make the resulting file secure. Check the origin and don't run unknown programs.

Alternatives for related tasks

LocalSend is convenient for graphical transmission on the local network. croc is suitable for terminal exchange between computers; it is better to compare Syncthing for constant synchronization.

Documentation and images

Official sources, image credits and review methods

The review was prepared on the project documentation. The installation and independent testing of the distribution within this material was not carried out. The rights to the interface and the names are reserved for the respective rights holders.