LocalSend: review, download and setup

What is LocalSend used for?

LocalSend transfers files and messages between the devices located a number of devices over a local network. For a regular exchange, you do not need an account and downloading documents to a third-party cloud server. The project applications are available for the main desktop and mobile OS; installation must be performed on the devices involved in the transfer.

This script is convenient for transferring photos from your phone, sending PDF to a laptop, or transferring a folder between your computers. It is different from creating a link available to the recipient from another city. Both devices must have a suitable network connection; the same name Wi-Fi in itself does not guarantee that they can communicate directly.

LocalSend: device search and transfer confirmation

When choosing the recipient, check the name of the device on his screen. Other users may be on the common network. Start with a small file without personal data, confirm the reception on the desired device and check the save folder. Automatic reception should be included only after the composition of the network and the circle of senders are clear.

If the device is not displayed, check the permission to access the local network, the firewall profile and the isolation of clients on the router. Guest Wi-Fi network often prohibits communication between visitors. An active VPN can also restrict local access. To diagnose, use project instructions; do not disable the protection of the computer in the whole for the sake of one detection.

Download LocalSend 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 LocalSend

1. Go to the official LocalSend website and install the application on the sender and recipient.
2. Connect both devices to a trusted local network.
3. Allow the application to access the local network if the OS requests this permission.
4. Select the test file and check the displayed name of the recipient with its screen.
5. Confirm the reception, open the saved file and check its name and content.
6. When detecting the problem, check the isolation of Wi-Fi, the rules of the application in the firewall and the impact of VPN.

LocalSend interface and illustrations

Interface screenshots

The origin of the images is indicated in the sources below. The interface of the installed version may differ.

LocalSendScreen LocalSend on Computer

1 / 2

Enlarge

1 of 2. LocalSend: Screen LocalSend on Computer

12

LocalSendScreen LocalSend on Computer · 1 / 2

Original in a new tab

Limitations and data protection in LocalSend

The lack of cloud loading does not cancel the addressee checks. The file accepted by another device is already under the control of its owner. Check the composition of the sent folder: next to the desired document may lie service data or drafts.

The speed depends on Wi-Fi, devices and network conditions. Do not disable encryption for the sake of a recommendation to speed up the transfer without evaluating content and environment. For important data, leave the source before the copy is opened. The official repository lists the update channels and features of the platforms; do not count on the same update in all installation options.

Alternatives for related tasks

Cyberduck and WinSCP are suitable for transfer to a remote server. For exchange via Tor, they consider OnionShare. LocalSend closes a narrower household task: send files between devices on a local network without an intermediate cloud account.

Documentation and images