Transfer files between your phone and PC with LocalSend

You can send photos and documents over your own network without uploading them to a cloud service first. This is how you set up LocalSend and check where the files end up.

What you need

LocalSend transmits files between devices that can reach each other via the local network. Install the app on both devices and connect it to the same appropriate network. An Internet connection is not necessary for the local transfer, but you must of course download the app first. A telephone and laptop with the same Wi-Fi name can still be isolated from each other, for example on a guest network.

For a first test, use your trusted home network. Leave the app open on both devices and check the recognizable device names. Those names help you select the right recipient, but also look at the receiving device if the request really comes from you.

Send one file first

Open LocalSend on your phone and PC.
Select an insignificant test file on the sending device.
Choose the receiving device in the list.
Accept the transfer to the receiver.
Open the received file and check the storage folder.

After that test, you can send a larger selection. First check the available storage space on the receiver. Keep the apps active during transfer; saving energy or closing a mobile app can interrupt a long transfer. The speed depends on your Wi-Fi, devices and file types.

If devices don't see each other

Check that both devices are actually on the same local network. A guest network can block connections between them. A VPN can reroute traffic and firewall settings can stop the app. Also check if the mobile operating system has allowed access to the local network.

Don't turn off your firewall completely to try and find out if that helps. Prefer to view the LocalSend rule and only allow the necessary access on a trusted network. On a school or company network the separation may be deliberately set up by the administrator; there you must use the allowed transfer method.

Check exactly what you send

Sending a photo as a file can also bring original metadata, such as time or location. Check what you want to share if the receiver is someone else. Check with multiple files if your selection is complete and if there are no documents in between that are not meant to be sent.

A successful transfer is not a reason to immediately erase your originals. Open some received files and compare numbers and names. In case of important photos, also make an ordinary backup before you clean up on your phone.

Transfer is something other than synchronization

LocalSend is useful for a conscious transfer at any given time. If you want to keep folders constant, then a synchronization solution like Syncing Another kind of tool. In doing so, you have to take into account passed changes and removals. Choose the method based on what you want to achieve: deliver one file or a permanent link between folders.