LocalSend is one of the tools I use when I want a fast, private way to move files between my devices without relying on cloud services or the internet. If you’ve used AirDrop but wished it worked everywhere, LocalSend is for you.

Every time I use it, I remember how freeing it is not to have to hunt for cables, upload files to a server, wait for sync, or worry about privacy. It just works locally and securely.

What It Does:

Here is what LocalSend gives you:

• Let's you send files (documents, photos, videos, folders) between devices that are on the same local network (Wi-Fi or LAN)

• No internet required. Everything transfers peer-to-peer without central servers or cloud storage involved

• Works on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android and iOS, so all your devices can use it together

• End-to-end encryption means only your devices have access to your files during transfer

• Devices discover each other automatically once the app is open, so you don’t have to mess with IP addresses most of the time

• You can also send clipboard content or text together with files in some versions or build setups

• Free and open source. No ads, no tracking, no hidden costs

Why It Works for Me:

Here is how I use LocalSend in my daily life and why I like it:

• When I switch between my phone, tablet, and laptop, I often need to move files. LocalSend lets me send from any device I have at hand without uploading anything to the cloud

• If I need a file sent from my phone to my computer, I open LocalSend on both devices, select the file, and in a few seconds, it's transferred. No waiting. No cables.

• It gives me peace of mind knowing privacy is taken seriously. Transfers are encrypted, there is no data collection, and the process is transparent because it is open-source.

• I don’t worry about cross-platform compatibility. Whether Android, iOS, Mac or a Windows machine, they all detect each other on the same network, and the file transfer is smooth.

Why You Should Consider It:

• Very fast when devices are on the same network.

• Reliable and private. No reliance on the internet or third-party servers.

• Free and open source, which means transparency and trust.

• Broad device support, which fits if you have a mix of smartphones, tablets, laptops, etc.

• Simple UI. It does what it needs to do without clutter.

What You Need to Know:

• If your devices are not on the same network, you may need minor workarounds or setting adjustments (like firewall settings) so they can detect each other.

• To receive files, the app usually needs to be open on both ends, so you cannot always push stuff in the background without some interaction.

• For very large files or many, many files at once, performance can depend heavily on how good your local network is (WiFi strength, router, etc).

My Final Thoughts:

LocalSend feels like having my own personal, high-speed courier between all my devices. It removes friction. It removes worry.

If you frequently share files between devices, this tool will save you time and stress. It isn’t perfect for every scenario, but for what I need, it hits almost all the marks.

If you want a simple, private, fast, and cross-platform file sharing tool, install this today. You’ll wonder why it wasn’t part of your setup earlier.