Sending large files can feel like trying to push a square peg through a round hole sometimes, especially when you’re faced with those annoying ‘attachment too large’ messages from email providers. But don’t you worry, navigating how to send large files quickly and securely isn’t as daunting as it might seem. There are plenty of effective ways to get those chunky documents, high-resolution photos, or big video files from A to B.
Why Sending Large Files is a Bit of a Faff
Traditional email services, like Gmail or Proton Mail, typically have a maximum attachment size limit, often around 25 MB. While this is fine for standard documents or smaller images, it’s simply not enough for larger media files or extensive presentations. You can try compressing files or splitting them into smaller parts, but frankly, there are more practical methods available today.
Beyond just the size limit, sending files over the internet involves a few technical hurdles. The speed at which a file transfers isn’t just about your internet bandwidth; it’s also affected by things like the distance the data has to travel, how busy the network is (network congestion), the speed of the storage drives involved, and the speed of the slowest point in the connection. And for many standard methods, security can be a concern, with encryption or password protection often missing or only available on paid tiers.
How to Send Large Files Quickly
So, how do you bypass these issues and send large files quickly? The most practical and secure approaches usually involve using specialised services designed for this task.
Secure Cloud Storage
This is often considered the most practical and secure method. Instead of attaching the file directly to an email, you upload it to a cloud storage service and then share a link with the recipient. The recipient clicks the link to download the file. Many popular services like Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, and Dropbox work this way. However, be mindful that some cloud services retain the encryption keys to your files, meaning third parties could potentially access them, and they might limit the size of files you can share. Using an end-to-end encrypted service like Proton Drive ensures only you and authorised recipients can access your files.
File-Transfer Services
These are services specifically designed for sending larger files. WeTransfer is a well-known example. They often work similarly to cloud storage for sharing – you upload the file and share a link. While many use strong encryption like TLS, some providers also retain the encryption keys, which is a security consideration. Free versions of these services often have limitations, such as file size caps, limited file availability periods, or lack features like password protection for links.
Removable Storage
For someone you can meet in person or send something to via secure courier, a USB drive is a straightforward option. You simply copy the file onto the drive and hand it over. If you go down this route, always make sure to encrypt the drive and protect it with a strong password in case it gets lost. The main drawback here is that once the drive is out of your hands, you can’t control the file or stop sharing it remotely.
Other Methods
For those more technically inclined, methods like setting up an FTP server are possible, though they can be complex. Splitting and compressing files using tools like 7zip or RAR is another way to potentially send them via other services or in parts. Peer-to-peer methods, like using a torrent client, are also mentioned as a way to transfer files directly without a middleman service. Some remote access tools, like AnyViewer or Teamviewer, also include file sharing features.
Free Tools and Services for Sending Large Files
Fortunately, you don’t always need to pay to send large files quickly. Here are some free options based on the sources, each with different features and limits:
- WeTransfer: Simple to use, no account needed for free transfers up to 2GB. Files are available for 7 days or 3 days depending on the source. Password protection requires a paid version. Recipients can only view images in the free version.
- Google Drive: Provides 15GB of free storage integrated with your Google account. You can easily share files using links. It offers security features like two-factor authentication and encryption. Excellent if you already use Google services.
- Dropbox: Offers 2GB of storage in the free plan. You can easily send files via sharing links. Suitable for smaller to medium files or professional use where you already have an account. Security features like password-protected links and two-factor authentication are available.
- Smash: This service supports unlimited file sizes for free transfers. Uploads in the free plan may have lower priority. File storage can be set from 1 to 14 days. Link customization and password protection might have restrictions in the free version.
- Send Anywhere: Allows free transfers up to 10GB. Uses a 6-digit key for secure sharing. Supports cross-platform transfers between devices. Offers end-to-end encryption.
- Proton Drive: Offers secure file sharing via links using end-to-end encryption. Only you and those you share with can access files, not even Proton. Based in Switzerland with strong privacy laws. While the sources don’t specify the free storage limit, it’s highlighted as a secure option for sharing.
- pCloud Transfer: Lets you send up to 5GB of files for free without needing an account. Uses TLS/SSL encryption for security. Best for quick, no-setup transfers.
- MediaFire: According to a Reddit comment referencing another article, MediaFire offers 50GB of free storage with a 20GB maximum upload size per file.
- Mega.nz: Also mentioned on Reddit, offers a free account. Users report full-speed downloads initially but might encounter a download cap after 5GB, with potential workarounds like using download managers that reset IPs.
When choosing a service, consider the file size limit for free accounts, the security features (like encryption and password protection), the transfer speed, and how easy it is to use. Some services are better for quick, one-off transfers, while others are better if you need cloud storage alongside sharing.
Sending large files doesn’t have to be a source of frustration. While traditional methods like email fall short due to file size limits and potential security gaps, numerous dedicated services and cloud storage options offer robust and efficient solutions. By utilising free services like Google Drive, WeTransfer, Send Anywhere, or others, you can easily find a way to send your large files quickly and often securely. Just pick the one that best suits the size of your file and your security needs, and you’ll be sharing those big files in no time!
