What is the File Sender?
The File Sender is a privacy-focused utility for sending files directly between two devices without uploading them to a server. It uses a technology called WebRTC to create a secure, peer-to-peer connection. The connection is established by scanning QR codes, making the process quick and seamless.
History of this Feature
Transferring files between devices, especially from a computer to a phone, has often required third-party apps, cloud storage, or emailing files to oneself. These methods involve uploading your data to a server, which can be slow and raise privacy concerns. Our File Sender was created to solve this problem by leveraging WebRTC, a modern web standard built for real-time communication, to enable direct browser-to-browser file transfers. This provides a fast, secure, and completely private way to share files.
Who Commonly Uses This Feature?
This tool is perfect for anyone who needs to quickly move a file from one device to another without the hassle of cables or cloud uploads. It's used by developers sharing code snippets, designers sending mockups to their phones for review, and anyone who values speed and privacy in their workflow.
How to Use the File Sender
On the sending device:
- Click "Select File" and choose the file you want to transfer.
- A "Sender" QR code will appear. This is your connection "offer."
On the receiving device:
- Navigate to this same File Sender page.
- Click the "Scan an Offer" button and use your camera to scan the QR code from the sending device.
- Your receiving device will then generate a new "Answer" QR code.
Back on the sending device:
- Click the "Scan an Answer" button.
- Scan the new QR code that is displayed on the receiving device.
Transfer: The devices will now establish a direct connection, and the file transfer will begin automatically. You will see a progress bar indicating the status. Once complete, the file will be downloaded on the receiving device.
Note: This feature works best when both devices are on the same local network (e.g., connected to the same WiFi). Performance may vary over different networks.