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In this article, we will show you how to send large files for free. We will introduce you to the different services you can use to send heavy files to your contacts, keeping in mind that all options have limitations.
How to send heavy files for free using your web cloud service
The most popular email services have significant limitations for sending large files. For example, in Gmail, you can only attach up to 25 MB in one message. However, this is not a problem when you use cloud storage platforms, as there are currently no limits for uploading files.
Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, among others, are some of the best cloud storage services. They all offer free sharing options, which means you can send heavy files for free with just a link. We will show you three examples.
Google Drive
Google Drive is one of the most popular clouds on the market. With a Gmail account, you can get 15 GB of free storage. This way, you can send files over 10 GB without complications.
Before sharing a file, you need to upload it to the cloud. If you have synchronized your files with Google Drive and its “My Drive” function, the file is probably already uploaded.
Steps to share the file:
- Open drive.google.com in your browser
- Locate the file you want to send
- Right-click on it
- Select “Share”
- Enter the email of the person you want to send the file to in the pop-up window
- If you wish, select “Restricted” and then “Anyone with the link” to allow downloading
- Click “Copy link” or “Done” to add the selected people
- The user who is sent the link or invited can download the file regardless of its size.
These steps can also be followed from the mobile with the Google Drive app for Android and iOS.
Dropbox
The process for sharing files through Dropbox is similar to Google Drive. Once you have uploaded the file to the cloud, right-click on it in the browser and select “Share”.
Then, you can choose to invite other users by email or send them a link. Make sure to select the “Can edit” option to allow downloading. If not, they can only view the file, not download it.
The free limit of Dropbox is 2 GB, which is much more limited compared to Google Drive.
Microsoft OneDrive
Another option for sending large files for free is to use OneDrive. With a Microsoft account, you can have 5 GB of free storage. However, if your company uses this service, you may have more space available for sending heavy files. The choice is up to you.
The methods of sending are similar to the other services, including sharing by link or invitation and display options for receivers.
Sending large files for free with a specialized online service
If you have already synchronized the file with your storage account, using OneDrive can be very convenient. Otherwise, you will have to upload the file and wait for the transfer to complete, in which case you may prefer to use a service specialized in sending large files. Let’s know some of the most effective.
WeTransfer
WeTransfer is one of the most well-known platforms for sending large files for free. You can send one or several files up to 2 GB for free. If you plan on frequent transfers, it may be interesting to consider one of their advanced paid plans.
To send files that do not exceed 2 GB, there is no need to pay. Simply, enter their official website, accept the terms and conditions, and then upload your files by dragging them to the browser window or by clicking “Upload files”. Indicate the recipient’s details, subject and message in the form, and then press “Send”. You can also opt for a link instead of sending by email.
TransferNow
TransferNow offers a similar file sharing option to WeTransfer, allowing you to send files up to 5 GB that will be available for 7 days. Click “Start”, select your files, and complete the necessary fields. You can send the file directly by email or generate a link before pressing “Transfer”.
Sending heavy files manually
If the speed of your network is a problem for uploading files to an external service, consider using more traditional methods such as a flash drive or an external hard drive. However, this is only viable if you can personally deliver the file to the recipient. This option may be the most convenient for sending large files for free.
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