How to share files over the air between Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS and Android

AirDrop feature on Mac, lets you share files with all of your devices without wires, has appeared in 2011 - in regard to the introduction of new technologies, Apple always ahead. A similar feature Microsoft's Near Share appeared only recently, in the last major update Redstone 4.

AirDrop is perfect on devices from Apple, Near Share useful on computers and tablets running Windows 10. But what if your device has a zoo and Soup with Windows, and MacOS, and with Linux, and Android, and iOS? Try one of these ways.

1. The local network

This method is very simple and universal. All modern operating systems - Windows 10, MacOS and Linux - support the creation of a public folder. And iOS and Android are able to connect to them in the local network using the third-party file managers.

Just rassharte the desired folder, then assign the necessary rights to read and write, and you can connect to it from any device on the local network.

On the desktop you can browse network folders in the standard file manager "Explorer" in Windows 10, the Finder in macOS, Nautilus and Nemo in Linux. On mobile devices, you can use the supporters of applications, such as ES File Manager for Android and FileMaster for iOS.

Benefits: all the tools to create a public folder is already in the operating system. The rate of exchange files depends only on your Wi-Fi.

Disadvantages: Although the network is full of guides, how to set up shared foldersMany users can not cope with it and prefer third-party solutions.

2. Cloud storage

Do not want to bother with setting up shared folders? Use Dropbox, Google Drive, or any other cloud storage your choice. Install the appropriate application to throw your files in cloud storage folder, and then copy them out at any convenient time.

Benefits: a copy of your files will always be saved in the cloud, and you have access to them, even if the original files are not a computer on the network. And since most cloud storage support restoring file versions, you'll have a backup at the same time.

Disadvantages: size of file storage in a certain extent limited. Extra bed will have to pay. In addition, the speed of downloading files in cloud storage may be less than the local network. Although the same Dropbox can share files in LAN.

3. Snapdrop

Developers Snapdrop inspired AirDrop. This is a very simple web application that runs directly in your browser. There is nothing to download and install. Just open Snapdrop on all devices where you want to transfer files and all. Snapdrop allows you to drag and drop files and folders directly into the browser window. It works on desktops and Android to iOS.

Benefits: utmost simplicity, runs without installation.

Disadvantages: All will have to shift manually. Automatic synchronization of folders, working without a net, and other gizmos is not provided.

Snapdrop →

4. AirDroid

AirDroid - a cross-platform tool that allows you to share files between devices Windows, MacOS, iOS and Android. In addition, the app is running in the browser, but you need to create an account AirDroid.

In addition to file-sharing, AirDroid provides a few interesting features. For example, you can write messages on your computer to then send them through the phone. Or view notifications from your phone to the computer's system tray.

Benefits: simple and popular solution. Many users of Android devices are already familiar with AirDroid, so why not use it?

Disadvantages: file sharing features in the free version is limited - you'll have to purchase the paid subscriptions for $ 20 per year.

AirDroid →

5. Resilio

He is also a former BitTorrent Sync. Resilio synchronizes files on P2P protocol (in other words, by using the torrent). No clouds, no accounts. Rassharte folder in Resilio, and then send a link to another device or scan the QR-code.

Resilio provides a cut-down free version, which is limited to the number of folders that can be exchanged. The paid version costs about $ 60 and supports Custom Sync.

Benefits: simple and convenient client. Synchronization speed depends on your network speed.

Disadvantages: trimmed opportunities in the free version. Before rebranding BitTorrent Sync developers were less greedy.

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6. Send Anywhere

A simple and yet functional application for file sharing. It is quite possible to fully use the free version, as restrictions on the amount of transferred files are not present. It is enough to select the desired files on the device and specify where you send them, and also to enter a six-digit code. Or simply install Send Anywhere client on all your devaysakh and choose where and what to send, without any codes. Send Anywhere supports 256-bit encryption.

In addition, the program can send files through the links and email. This differs from the version of the free-pro: free version sends mail only 10 GB, priced - 50 GB. Free can be temporarily stored in the cloud 10GB charge - up to 1 TB.

Send Anywhere clients available on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. In addition, the service provides plugins for Chrome, and Outlook.

Benefits: easy, convenient and universal service. You do not have to bother setting.

Disadvantages: Still client capabilities are somewhat limited. However, for most users, they will be enough.

Send Anywhere →

7. Private torrent

This is a great way if you need to send a really big amount of data - for example, a folder containing the audio file or movie.

You can use any torrent client. Just create it in a torrent, select the desired data, wait until they will index, and send the generated torrent file to another device. And then just start downloading as usual.

Benefits: method allows unlimited number of data exchange. You can use any bittorrent client at your convenience.

Disadvantages: the device that sent the data to be included until the download is complete. Torrent files have to be created manually.

And what method you use? Share in the comments.

see also

• How to quickly share files between any devices →
• How to synchronize files between devices without third-party online services →
• How to copy files to a USB flash drive if it is locked →