LocalSend
LocalSend is a cross-platform file sharing app for sending files, text, and folders to nearby devices over your local network.
What is LocalSend?
LocalSend is a file sharing app that helps you send files, folders, and text between nearby devices on the same local network. It is designed for people who move content between a Mac, Windows PC, Linux computer, iPhone, iPad, or Android device without relying on cloud storage or an internet connection. Transfers happen directly over your local network, and the app supports encrypted sharing for added privacy during transfer. LocalSend does not require an account or login, which makes it convenient for quick one-time transfers as well as everyday use across mixed-device households or work setups. On macOS, it is commonly used as a cross-platform alternative to AirDrop when you need to share documents, photos, videos, or other files with non-Apple devices.
Key features
- Send files to nearby devices on the same local network
- Share folders and text as well as individual files
- Transfer data without creating an account or signing in
- Use end-to-end encrypted transfers between devices
- Work across macOS, Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS
- Save received files to the Downloads folder by default
- Use a browser-based sharing option for devices without the app
- Add PIN verification for extra confirmation during transfers
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Safety overview
Status: Mostly safe
LocalSend’s network access is consistent with its purpose because it discovers nearby devices and transfers data over your local network. On a Mac, firewall prompts or local network permission requests are expected for this kind of app. As with any file transfer tool, only accept incoming transfers from devices you recognize, and review the save location for received files. If you installed it from outside the App Store, keep it updated manually because the project notes that the app does not provide auto-update in all distribution channels.
Recommendation: Keep LocalSend if you use it to move files between devices on your home, school, or work network. If you no longer use it, removing it should only affect local file sharing through LocalSend and will not impact AirDrop or other built-in macOS transfer features.
Common paths
/Applications/LocalSend.app~/Applications/LocalSend.app
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