LocalSend

LocalSend is a free, open-source application that lets you securely share files and text with nearby devices over your local network using a REST API and HTTPS encryption. It requires no account or third-party servers and is designed for direct device-to-device transfers on the same LAN.

Key Features

• Cross-platform clients for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS, plus a browser-based web app.
• Secure transfers over HTTPS with on-device TLS certificates; optional PIN verification for extra safety.
• Zero-configuration discovery and workflow: automatic device discovery on the same network and simple tap-to-send UX.
• Native Flutter client with Rust components (used via Rust bridge) to handle low-level transfer logic and performance-critical parts.
• Multiple distribution channels and packaged builds (App Stores, Flathub, Homebrew, package formats and installers) for easy installation across platforms.

Use Cases

• Quickly move photos, videos, and large documents between your phone and laptop without uploading to cloud storage.
• Share a set of files with a coworker in a meeting room over the local Wi‑Fi network.
• Use the web app on a device where installing the native client isn’t possible to receive or send files.

Limitations and Considerations

• Requires devices to be on the same local network; some router settings (AP isolation, guest networks) or strict firewalls can block discovery or transfers.
• Building from source requires specific tool versions (Flutter per .fvmrc and Rust) and may need additional platform dependencies; official builds are recommended for most users.

LocalSend provides a straightforward, privacy-focused alternative to cloud-based file sharing by keeping transfers local and encrypted. It is suited for users who need fast, private transfers across mixed operating systems without accounts or external servers.