LocalSend – File transfer tool

LocalSend is a free, open‑source, cross‑platform tool for secure peer‑to‑peer file and message sharing over local networks without requiring an internet connection or third‑party servers. Its simple interface discovers nearby devices automatically and encrypts transfers end‑to‑end for privacy. Designed as an open‑source alternative to proprietary solutions like AirDrop, LocalSend works seamlessly on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.

🚀 Usage

1. Install the App
   Download and install LocalSend on each device from the official site or platform stores (Flathub for Linux, Play Store for Android, App Store for iOS/macOS, and installers on localsend.org).

2. Connect to the Same Network
   Ensure all devices are on the same Wi‑Fi or wired LAN segment; no internet or Bluetooth pairing is needed.

3. Launch and Discover
   Open LocalSend on sender and receiver; the apps will auto‑discover each other and assign fun random nicknames (editable in settings) for easy identification.

4. Select and Send
   On the sending device, tap Send, choose files or folders, then tap the target device name to initiate. You can also generate a temporary QR code or shareable web link to receive on devices without the app installed .

5. Approve and Receive
   The receiving device shows a prompt to accept or reject; after approval, a progress bar appears with advanced metrics and cancel option.

6. Access Files
   Once complete, transferred files appear in your chosen download folder or native gallery/app location, preserving folder structure and file names.

🛠 Key Features

• Peer‑to‑Peer Transfer
  No central server or internet; all data flows directly between devices on your LAN.

• Cross‑Platform Support
  Available on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, with consistent UX across platforms.

• End‑to‑End Encryption
  HTTPS‑based encryption ensures only sender and recipient access your files.

• Open Source & Free
  MIT‑licensed project with public code on GitHub; no ads, no tracking, no fees.

• No Account Required
  Use without registration; simply open the app and share.

• Offline & LAN‑Only
  Works without internet—even on wired networks—ideal for secure environments.

• Web Link & QR Code Sharing
  Generate links or QR codes for devices without LocalSend installed.

• Folder Structure Preservation
  Transfers entire folders with subdirectories intact.

🎯 Suitable Scenarios

• From Android to iPhone Photo Swap
  Quickly move selfies or camera rolls between Android and iOS without email or cloud uploads.

• Office Document Sharing
  Share large presentations, spreadsheets, or design files across office PCs and laptops securely, without corporate VPN or cloud services.

• Classroom Resource Distribution
  In offline classrooms or workshops, distribute lecture slides, PDFs, and media to student devices in one go.

• Event & Conference Handouts
  Instantly send agendas, flyers, and promotional materials to attendees’ devices at seminars or trade shows without internet congestion.

• Home Media Sync
  Transfer music, video, or photo libraries between home computers, NAS devices, and mobile phones over your private network.

• Emergency & Field Work
  In remote areas or disaster zones with no connectivity, exchange critical maps, reports, or logs directly between field teams.

• Multi‑VM Environments
  Send installers or patches from host OS to multiple virtual machines without dragging files via shared folders.