The best ways of sharing large files cuts out the need to send files individually or even whole folders over email.
Despite the widespread use of email as a means of file transmission, the attachment size restrictions imposed by certain service providers make this option impractical for bigger files.
Users at home may find this frustrating, but it might have serious consequences for businesses.
It is possible to email large files online without any problems. We’ve highlighted some of the top solutions available, the majority of which don't charge (although this leads to premium offers if you want to get improved services).
We've analysed many methods to determine the most effective means of sending huge files that you can share whenever. Oh, and we've thrown in a few of the top cloud-based storage options ⭐.
Table of Contents:
- Top Tip – Use a VPN
- 1. Use FTP
- 2. Google Drive
- 3. ExaVault
- 4. Files.com
- 5. DropSend
- 6. Dropbox
- 7. Send Anywhere
- 8. WeTransfer
- 9. Jumpshare
- 10. Bitwarden Send
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Top Tip 💡 – Use a VPN
“Ey?” I hear you saying. Why would you want to use a virtual private network (VPN) only to send a big file?
Broadband traffic management is used by certain ISPs (like Virgin Media) to limit upload speeds (rather than download).
If you use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) like our top pick, NordVPN (review), your Internet service provider (ISP) will be blocked from seeing what kinds of files you're uploading and won't be able to throttle your connection as a result. Of course, there's nothing stopping you from testing out a free VPN service first.
One of the most common and dependable means of transferring huge amounts of data is P2P (peer-to-peer), however, this is also the sort of material that is most likely to be detected and then moved down the priority lines. Here is a rundown of the top VPN providers that we recommend. Keep in mind that results may vary and your connection speed could decrease.
Send large files via online services
With that said, you can use a third-party file transfer website instead of email to send and receive files. Just choose the file(s) you want to send, then enter your name, email, and the recipient's name and address.
Your receiver will get an email with a link to download the file from the site. What's the maximum file size that may be accepted?
It is totally up to you and the service you're looking for. Let’s start with a free option.
1. Use FTP 📂
The file transfer protocol (FTP) is a method that has been around for quite some time.
File transfer protocol is a network protocol that uses TCP/IP to move data between FTP hosts and users. Transferring huge files is its primary function. To begin utilising the protocol, you need a client.
When it comes to file management, however, FTP more than makes up for its security flaws. Sending numerous files at once is possible, and there is no limit on the total size of any one transfer. It’s one of the most time- and labour-saving methods of exchanging files because of its many benefits.
Client for Xlight FTP Server 🛰️
FileZilla and Xlight are only two of several free FTP clients available online. FTP's sole flaw is that it lacks security. Files may be accessed by an attacker since usernames and passwords are sent in plain text. Use FTP to store data that does not need to be kept secret to avoid being hacked.
Secure SFTP
The encrypted version of FTP is called SFTP, or Secure File Transfer Protocol. In this case, the user is able to utilise Secure Shell to transmit data thanks to the protocol (SSH). Files sent through SSH are encrypted in transit to protect sensitive information like passwords from prying eyes.
File transfers need the server to validate the client's identity and the security of the communication channel. SFTP's built-in security safeguards make it a top choice for transmitting sensitive data in a corporate setting.
You can use SFTP to transmit files with most FTP servers already. SolarWinds SFTP/ SCP Server, FileZilla, and Syncplify.me Server are three dependable examples of free SFTP servers. It's also preferable to utilise SFTP over FTPS, since it doesn't need as many open ports (open ports are potential entry points into your network).
FTP vs SFTP
In contrast to some of the other options on this list, however, setting up an SFTP server requires a little more work. A cloud-based service is the best option if you're looking for ease of use. In addition, the absence of user activity records might be problematic if regulatory compliance is an issue.
2. Google Drive 💽
The largest attachment size accepted by Gmail is 25 megabytes; any larger items are sent to Google Drive.
To transmit a file using Gmail (best secured email), just create a new message and attach the necessary file. Google will redirect you to Google Drive with a download link if the file is too big to upload.
When you attempt to send an attachment by email, you'll be prompted to grant the receiver permission to download the attachment. It is set to read-only so that you may see the file without downloading anything. You may choose to give them access to read only or editing capabilities, but they'll need a Google account to do either.
Upgrading Gmail to Drive 📊
After the appropriate permissions have been assigned, the email may be sent. The recipient then uses the Google Drive link provided in the email to access the file.
Although the free tier of Google Drive only allows for 15GB, the subscription tiers each allow for up to 750GB each day (though files greater than this will still get through) and a total of 5TB per account.
Google Drive makes it easy to provide access to your files and folders to anybody.
Shared Google Drive files may be set to read-only, commented on, or edited by the recipient. The Google Drive program's rules apply when you share information from Google Drive.
Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, and Slides are computer-based options.
- ☑️ Just choose the file you'd want to send to others.
- ☑️ Hit the Share button.
- ☑️ Share a bunch of documents.
Sharing your Google Drive files
The second stage is deciding who will have access to your information and how it will be used.
Google's Documents, Sheets, and Slides files can only be opened and changed on 100 different browser windows or devices at once. If more than 100 copies of the file are currently open, only the file's owner and those users with editing rights may make changes.
Having numerous individuals see the same file at once is possible via first publishing and then creating a link. Those who need to make changes to the file or leave comments can get edit access.
When you publish a file, it becomes available to the public, your whole company, or a specific group within your organisation, depending on the privacy settings you've established for your account. Take caution before making public any personally identifiable information.
As an administrator, it is your responsibility to decide who has access to upload files to the internet.
3. ExaVault
When combined with its secure file transmission features, lt hopes to compete with the established leaders in the cloud storage space.
Packages on this platform range from those designed for short-term file storage before to distribution to those designed for long-term file storage by corporate users.
Among the many cloud-based secure FTP solutions present, ExaVault stands out for its seamless integration with robotic processes.
Unlike Files.com (next on our list), the service can handle far greater data transfers. Although this storage capacity is dependent on compression, you may simply add compression to files before uploading them to Files.com, allowing you to quickly surpass the previous record established by ExaVault.
Reasons to choose… 📕
ExaVault is comparable to the other services above since they are all high-quality, invite-only systems that use links. Instead of duplicating data via distribution, which results in a loss of control over those files, the ExaVault system is ideal for transferring massive files and centralising file storage.
ExaVault's white-labeling feature is available across all of its pricing tiers, making it a great option for MSPs looking to deliver more value to their customers. This application not only provides a method for the transmission of huge files, but it can also be used to automate the backup of local directories inside a company.
Best for businesses 🏢
The ExaVault system is ideal for businesses that want to automate file transfers and the development of scripts for the processing of files. Without the need for complex procedures, it's hard to see why you'd select this service over Files.com.
4. Files.com 📁
Files.com charges a monthly fee per user and has three pricing tiers.
There is a recurring monthly fee of $10 (£8.10) for the Basic plan (up to 5GB). There is a free 7-day trial available for users to test out the system.
With Files.com, a company may set up a cloud drive and have a means to share and transmit data without having to hire additional IT staff or learn a new system. Security for both storing data and sending it is handled automatically, so you can focus on growing your business without distraction.
Due to its superiority in handling file sizes up to 5 terabytes, the Files.com system sees heavy usage from the media industry. In order to expedite uploads to the server, the cloud service uses a safe transfer accelerator.
After a user has uploaded a huge file to Files.com, instead of physically sending the file to the recipient, they may simply email them a link to the file on the server.
Why use? ⭐
Who would benefit from this?
The Files.com service is useful for media companies that deal with huge video files, since it supports transfers of up to 5 GB in size. The same goes for engineering and manufacturing design services, which need the capacity to transport huge files.
5. DropSend 💧
DropSend is a file-transfer website that enables you to write an email to the receiver and attach the file you wish to send.
You may send a file to someone through email with a direct download or viewing link.
DropSend's three individual programmes are all subscription-based and cost money.
Simple plans that start with 10GB 📅
The most basic package is around a fiver per month and provides you with 10GB of online storage and 25 monthly sends. The Standard plan costs about double that per month and includes 25GB of storage space and up to 50 monthly sends, in addition to other benefits.
You get 25GB of storage, unlimited monthly sends, and a plethora of other premium features with the Professional plan that costs £19 per month.
6. Dropbox
Another popular option is Dropbox, which lets you upload files of any size through a desktop client as well as a mobile app. Your total file size for uploading to the Dropbox website must be less than 50GB.
Of the various cloud storage options available, Dropbox competes mostly with Google Drive and Microsoft OneDrive. This service is included as an example of a subset of online services in this category, since it offers desktop-like file management for mobile devices.
Why use? ✅
Dropbox was made with the common user in mind, and it shows.
With synchronisation, data may be made accessible on numerous devices at once, functioning as a backup mechanism. Users may share their files with others by sending them an invite link, and the system offers the standard discretionary access restrictions seen on other cloud systems.
The desktop app's interface is similarly fairly straightforward, requiring just a right-click on the Share button next to the desired file and the addition of the recipients' email addresses.
Overall
Whether you're a sole proprietor, a small company, or a large corporation, Dropbox is a great option. In an example, companies with mobile employees who often swap devices as they go from the office to the site might profit from Dropbox.
7. Send Anywhere 🌍
If you have a device that supports it, you may use Send Anywhere, a file-sharing programme that requires a 6-digit key to transmit files to any location. In order for others to access your shared files regardless of their location, you may generate a link to access them.
This setup is a file-sharing service that uses cloud-based storage for short-term data storage. This essentially makes the system intermediate between an FTP client and a cloud storage service that requires users to send each other links to share files.
Starts with 10GB 💾
It's true that not everyone has a pressing need for as much support as is provided by the cloud storage and link invitation systems on this list. Send Anywhere is a great technique to try if you need a temporary secure link invite file sharing platform.
A file's expiry date indicates when it will no longer be accessible. The maximum file size that may be sent with Send Anywhere is 10 GB. Many platforms are supported by the programme, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, the Amazon Kindle, and Outlook with the Add-In.
Premium jumps to 50GB 😲
Send Anywhere PLUS, which includes a server, is available for purchase if you need more resources. With Send Anywhere PLUS, you may upload up to 50 GB at once and enjoy a transfer speed of 100 MB/s. The monthly subscription for the premium service is just $5.99 (£4.85).
The Send Anywhere solution is ideal for companies who distribute a lot of information but don't want to keep copies or worry about managing storage space. Event invitations or recurring, impersonal reminders, such as those used by a healthcare provider, auto repair shop, or law firm, are the kind of tasks well-suited to this approach.
8. WeTransfer 🚤
Several individuals prefer using WeTransfer because of how simple it is to use.
To transmit a file, click on it on your computer, then enter the recipients' addresses and a message. To transmit the file to the recipient, choose the Transfer option.
WeTransfer's free, ad-supported account can handle files up to 2 GB. No account creation is required, however, each transfer requires a visitor to input a verification number sent to their email. WeTransfer Pro accounts cost less than a tenner per month and provide additional features and support for files up to 20GB in size.
9. Jumpshare 🦘
Jumpshare is one of several well-know free and paid platforms that allow you to upload large files.
With Jumpshare, you may save and transmit up to 250 MB of data for free, and the links can be shared with others. Anybody in possession of the link may see the contents of the attached file.
This service stands apart from other file-sharing platforms due to its innovative screen capture, session recording, and video editing capabilities. The package's primary focus is on file sharing as a means of communication and cooperation in the workplace, as well as for use in pitch decks and other business presentations.
Better than Gmail 📧
Jumpshare's free version is enticing. The premium editions of Jumpshare provide a lot more features, but even the free version has access to some of the more basic ones, including the ability to embed videos and watch them offline.
This is a huge improvement over the standard 25 MB limit imposed by most email providers. These resources are also quite simple to operate. With Jumpshare, for instance, you can simply drop the files you wish to upload into the app's menu bar icon. In such case, a URL will be transferred to your clipboard.
Great for creative people 🎉
If you want to transfer files online quickly and easily, without having to resort to any additional technological “workarounds”, then using Jumpshare is a fantastic choice. To get started, just sign up on the provider's website.
Jumpshare is the best file sugaring solution for anybody who wants to convey visual information or do brainstorming sessions using shared photographs or motion capture that may be tagged.
10. Bitwarden Send 💂
Sending a message or a file to someone else is a safe and secure process using Bitwarden Send.
A free account allows users to communicate text, but a yearly membership is required to share files.
Bitwarden's Make a New Send button may be found on the Send page of their website. Then, give the file you wish to send its own name, and attach it.
Custom links 🖇️
The file may be shared with various customisations, such as an end date, an expiry date, and a password. When you choose to save the updated Send, the file is sent to Bitwarden. You can then share the link with others so they can access the file online.
FAQs 📚
When using my phone, how can I email large files?
Sending files via a mobile device or tablet is technically identical to doing it from a PC. The user's data plan is the largest challenge when sending large files from a mobile device. The cost of exceeding your monthly data cap, if applicable, might be rather high. Send the file when connected to WiFi and temporarily disable data if this is the case.
What is the best way to send large file over a slow connection?
There is a greater chance of a connection being lost the longer a session continues while using a sluggish connection. If your transfer is interrupted, utilise an app that allows you to stop and continue it later. When sending a large file, some transfer tools may break it up into smaller chunks and transmit them in parallel. However, if your bandwidth is limited, it won't help.
Is my data safe on the cloud from hackers?
Several prior breaches of cloud storage have received a lot of attention from the media. In response, several cloud storage services have implemented two-factor authentication to increase security for user accounts (2FA). This requires a challenge question to be texted to your phone and prevents a remote hacker from gaining access to your account, even if they have your password.
When uploading a large file to Google Drive, why do I get a warning that it may contain viruses?
If you want to share or receive a file through Google Drive, know that it will be scanned before it is downloaded. If you try to scan a file that's greater than 25 MB, you'll receive a message saying that it can't be scanned. But, the download will occur anyway. By separating the file, you may prevent seeing this error totally. Instead of emailing the file, provide a link to the document so the recipient may access it from any web browser.
Conclusion 🏁
There are several elements to consider when deciding how to exchange large data, including the files' sizes, the transfer speed, and the security of the process.
An online file transfer service should suffice if the file size is modest. If the file is too big to send over email, you may use a compression programme to make it manageable before uploading it online. If the file size exceeds several terabytes, however, it is more practical to purchase a huge external hard drive.
Transferring digital files over the internet is a time-consuming process, so any increase in your internet speed is welcome.
