LocalSend 1.18.0

LocalSend: Open-source, Offline File Transfer for Local Networks

LocalSend is a cross-platform file-sharing application that moves data directly between devices on the same local network without relying on cloud services. Designed for users who prioritize privacy and simplicity, it supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS and operates without accounts, ads, or tracking.

Core features and functionality

Transfers occur peer-to-peer over Wi‑Fi or LAN and are secured with TLS encryption. The app accepts any file type and saves received data to the device’s Downloads folder by default, with options to change the destination. LocalSend emphasizes minimal setup: install the app on devices, select files, and tap a nearby device to initiate a transfer.

Platform parity and release updates

LocalSend is maintained as an open-source project with frequent updates and community contributions. Recent updates introduced optional HTTPS when sharing via link, new UI switches for settings, options to disable animations and history saving, improved handling of file-permission errors, and platform-specific improvements such as Linux autostart and ESC-key navigation on desktop builds.

Usability and configuration

The interface focuses on straightforward actions—select, tap, send—while offering configurable privacy and convenience settings. Users can enable PIN verification for extra security, customize the device model string, and opt out of saving transfer history. On mobile, the app can open links in an external browser tab and preserves image metadata when saving GIFs and images.

Security and operational model

All transfers are encrypted; LocalSend does not transmit data over the internet and is intended for scenarios where data must remain on the local network. No account creation is required, and the project states there is no telemetry collection or advertising within the app.

Practical applications and audience

• Ad hoc sharing between personal devices without cloud sync.
• File exchange in corporate, field, or sensitive environments where internet access is restricted or monitoring is a concern.
• Cross-platform collaboration where quick transfers between desktop and mobile are needed.

Availability and support

LocalSend is available through official downloads for desktop and on the Apple App Store and Google Play. The project is open source, with source code, issue tracking, and community discussion hosted on GitHub. Support and contact options are provided on the project website, including a support email and community channels such as Discord, Reddit, and Mastodon.