0. Simplified version (TL:DR)
These solutions are compatible with various platforms such as Windows, Linux, and macOS on personal computers, as well as Android and iPhone for phones (provided that you use a web browser to access the respective websites).
💻 <---> 💻 (Local Data Sharing)
Use pairdrop.net for sharing files within the local network (Wi-Fi connection).
💻 --🌐--> 💻 (Remote Data Sharing)
Use directshare.io to share files between two computers when they are not on the same network (Wi-Fi).
💻 ---> 🗄️ ---> 💻 (Intermediary Server Data Sharing)
Use any cloud storage service if you have any.
If not, wormhole.app is a good way to share files via a server. But files are automatically deleted after 24 hours.
1. Details options
1.1 Definition
P2P : Directly share a file between 2 computers. Both computers need to be online at the same time. This is the most secure and fastest way to share a file.
💻 <---> 💻
Client-Server : Sharing a file between two computers via a server. Both computers do not need to be online at the same time. This is usually less secure and slower but allows more flexibility.
💻 ---> 🗄️ ---> 💻
1.2 Use case
Web app (internet connection needed to load the application) :
Best for one-time use :
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Pairdrop.net, P2P share on local network.
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directshare.io, P2P share over the internet.
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wormhole.app, Client-Server share over the internet. (limited to 24 hours storage)
Best for long-term share storage :
Any cloud provider, but an account is required.
Application to download (Can be used locally without internet), better for constant usage :
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beebeep.net, P2P local messaging app with file sharing capabilities. I recommend this one for security reasons.
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Lan-share, P2P local file sharing. Unmaintained but still works, avoid using it on public wifi. (Work on Windows + Linux)
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Nitro-share, P2P local file sharing. Unmaintained but still works, avoid using it on public wifi. (Work on Windows + Linux + MacOS)
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syncthing.net, a self-hosting client-server file-sharing application. Needs some set-up but is a good alternative to online cloud providers if privacy or price is a concern.
Honorable mention for very specific use case :
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Web server directory like with debian, good self-hosting method for sharing a large amount of file/folder in the internet.
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SMB/Samba with explaination, good for sharing a folder on a local network. Some setup is require but no application should be needed to make it work.
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Protocol SFTP with FileZilla, Good to access / give data on a local device when you know its username and password. (usually for server management)
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Protocol SCP CheatSheet, Good to automate local transfer without using any external software.
2. Download version
3. Contribution
Image by Megan Rexazin Conde from Pixabay