What are the best file sharing services?

File sharing services let you share large files via a download link. They’re particularly convenient for users looking to share multiple files or large files that are too big to be shared as email attachments.

Overview of file sharing services

Updated: February 2024

What is file sharing?

In traditional file sharing, files are shared in a decentralised peer-to-peer network. In most cases, files are located on a user’s computer, and software is required for the exchange.

File share programs, which allow users to share files via a download link using a browser, are secure and easy to use. File hosting services (also known as shared hosting) offer encryption and password protection even in their free version. Downloads tend to be available for a few days before they’re automatically deleted.

A growing number of file sharing platforms combine their services for sharing larger files with cloud storage and paid subscriptions.

What to look out for when using file share platforms

Which file sharing service is the right one for you depends on your individual needs:

• Data size: The most important factor when choosing the right file sharing service is the average size of the files you want to upload. Ensure that the maximum upload size is sufficient for the files you want to upload.
• Frequency of use: If you frequently use a document sharing platform, using a cloud storage service is a good idea. This service allows you to share files directly from your storage. If you only want to generate a link to share a file once in a while, it may be more convenient to use a platform or service that doesn’t require registration.
• Data protection: When sending sensitive files, consider choosing a file sharing platform that complies with strict data protection regulations.
• Security standards: When uploading and downloading, the IP address of users who don’t use a VPN may be publicly visible and open to attack. Using a secure document sharing platform ensures you are protected thanks to encryption.

7 free file sharing platforms

Below are some of the top free file sharing services that are suitable for sharing files that you can’t send as email attachments. Cloud storage providers like Google Drive, OneDrive, iCloud or Box are excluded. While these do include file sharing tools, they’re mainly suitable for backing up photos, documents, music files and videos. However, a growing number of file sharing providers also offer cloud storage features.

HiDrive Share

With HiDrive Share,you can securely upload files up to 2 GB in size free of charge and without having to register. You’ll receive a download link that you can then send to selected users by email or over a messaging service. They can download the files as often as they like and you can send the download link to as many people as you want. After the seven days, the link will expire, and all uploaded data will be irreversibly deleted. HiDrive Share offers a high level of cloud security with protected, GDPR-compliant servers.

SwissTransfer

SwissTransfer is a service provided by Swiss web hosting company Infomaniak. Users can share up to 50 GB in files for free. SwissTransfer adheres to Swiss data protection standards. Files can be shared via email or using a download link that is valid for a maximum of 30 days. Downloads are protected with a password.

WeTransfer

WeTransfer is among the best-known file/cloud-sharing services and can be used without installation or registration. You can share up to 2 GB of files for free without an account. The Pro package increases the upload volume to 200 GB and if you opt for the Premium package, your files are not subject to any size restrictions. The process is simple. Just enter your email address and that of your recipient. Once the upload is finished, the recipient receives a download link. Password protection and the ability to customise how long the link is valid for are only available in the Pro package.

Filemail

Filemail was founded in Norway and offers the convenient option of sending large files via email or a link for free. It’s a cloud-based service that can be used on a browser or via the app. When using Filemail for free, you can specify whether the download should be available for one or seven days. If you register, you get access to free storage and a download volume of 5 GB and benefit from virus checks and encryption. In the Pro version, download availability can be extended.

TransferNow

TransferNow is a convenient and registration-free file sharing service that lets you send files up to 5 GB in size. For a higher upload volume, you can increase it to 250 GB by subscribing for around £7 a month. The premium version provides 500 GB of storage, turning TransferNow into cloud storage. Each file transfer is protected with HTTPS, even in the free version.

Dropbox Transfer

Dropbox Transfer benefits from the fact that many people are already familiar with Dropbox. The file share service is one of the market leaders among cloud storage services, alongside Google Drive and OneDrive. But Dropbox alternatives are also making their mark in this competitive landscape.

With Dropbox Transfer, you can send up to 100 MB for free using a download link. To do this, register for free or log in with your existing Dropbox account.

4shared

You can use the file sharing platform 4shared from a browser or via an iOS and Android app. Once you register for free, you can also use it as cloud storage. Files up to a maximum of 2 GB can be shared by email or via a download link. When downloading, users without a 4shared account have to wait a short time before their download begins. The service does display ads, however. Free 4shared accounts that have not been used for more than 180 days are deleted. A paid package is available and starts at £8 per month. With the paid package, users can upload files (which can be up to 100 GB in size) faster as well as enjoy the service without advertising.