How to Send Large Files in 2025: Cloud Storage vs File Transfer Services

Key Takeaways: Top Ways to Send Large Files

1. Use a cloud storage service to send large files; many services offer free storage plans that allow you to share files online: Sync.com offers 5GB for free. 
2. You can also use a dedicated file transfer service, like WeTransfer, which offers free file transfers up to 2GB.
3. You can also transfer files with SFTP, compress files for email, use NordVPN’s Meshnet or even use a USB drive. 

Facts & Expert Analysis

• Best way to send large files: Cloud storage is the most efficient way to send large files, but you can also use dedicated file transfer services.
• Attachment size limit: Most email service providers restrict you to 30MB attachments.
• Staying secure: Privacy and security are important considerations when deciding how to share large files.

How to Send Large Files: Video Guide

How to Send Large Files Over the Internet: Easy Steps!

Our Pick for Sending Large Files

www.sync.com

200GB$2.65 / month

(save 40%) (All Plans)

Visit Sync.comReview

It’s not uncommon for someone to try to send large files to a friend or colleague through email, only to receive an error saying that the files were too big. That’s because popular emailing services like Yahoo and Gmail restrict users from sending attachments exceeding 25MB. 

If you are trying to share photos, videos, business presentations or software packages, you’ll likely need to share files that exceed email file-size limits. Luckily, there are many different workarounds for sending large files, besides email. 

This article will explore various methods for sending large files. Our top recommendation is to use one of the best cloud storage services that lets you transfer files easily and securely. Keep reading for how-to steps, plus other solutions to this common challenge.

Cloudwards’ Recommendation: Send Large Files via Cloud Storage 

While file transfer services work well for one-time sharing, cloud storage provides superior functionality for ongoing collaboration. With persistent storage, version history and real-time synchronization, cloud solutions allow teams to continuously access and update shared files without repeatedly sending new versions through email or transfer services.

Cloud storage is a great option for transferring large files. Cloud service servers are located in data centers, and users access them remotely. The sender can upload large files to the cloud service and provide a sharable link to the recipient. When the recipient receives the link, they can view or download the files from their internet-connected device. 

When evaluating cloud storage services for sending large files, consider their upload speed capabilities, as some premium services offer accelerated upload speeds of up to 500 Mbps.

In addition, services like Dropbox offer customizable download links, allowing you to create branded sharing experiences when sending large files to clients. Be aware, though, that some cloud storage services impose bandwidth limitations on file downloads, which could impact how quickly recipients can access very large files you’ve shared.

Most cloud storage solutions include file previewing functionality, allowing recipients to view documents, images and sometimes even videos directly in their browser without downloading them first.

Cloud storage platforms like Google Drive and Microsoft OneDrive offer collaborative editing features, allowing multiple users to work on the same document simultaneously after you’ve shared it.

Many cloud storage solutions also include file versioning capabilities, allowing you to restore previous versions of your files if something goes wrong during the sharing process.

Cost and scalability are factors to consider when selecting a cloud storage solution. Upload and download speeds also play a part if you want a fast service. In addition, it’s a good idea to consider the access controls, security features, versioning and revision history. 

Google Drive, Apple iCloud and Sync.com are examples of cloud services you can use to send large files. Many of them offer free plans that you can use to share files online: Sync.com has a free plan with 5GB of storage, and Apple iCloud has a free plan with 5GB of cloud storage.

Gmail users have a particularly convenient option, as their accounts automatically come with 15GB of free Google Drive storage. This integration makes it especially easy to send large files directly from your email interface — simply upload to Drive and share the link without leaving your Gmail composition window.

When choosing a cloud storage solution, ensure it offers cross-platform compatibility across Windows, macOS, iOS, Android and web browsers to make file sharing seamless regardless of the devices your recipients use.

How to Transfer Large Files via Cloud Storage

In our expertise, the best way to send large files is through a cloud storage service. The example below demonstrates how you can send large files using Sync.com. 

1. Sign Up for Free

   Head over to Sync.com and log in or sign up for free.

   

2. Go to the Web Panel

   Sync.com allows you to download its desktop application after signing up. However, you can use the web panel if you prefer.

   

3. Upload File(s)

   Upload the large file(s) you want to send on the Sync.com dashboard. You can drag and drop or upload manually from your computer.

   

4. Share the File(s)

   Click the “share” button to share the file as a link.

   

5. Select the Recipients

   Sync.com lets you send an email to the recipient with a link to the file or folder. You can also copy the link and send it via other messaging options. Anyone with the link can access the file even without creating an account, though you can also add access permissions for security.

   

Most premium cloud storage services offer enhanced security options when sharing sensitive files. You can add password protection to your shared links, set expiration dates or restrict editing permissions to ensure your data remains secure even after it leaves your control. This level of access management is particularly valuable when sharing confidential business files or personal information.

Option 2: Paid & Free File Transfer Services

File transfer services work similarly to cloud services. However, there are fewer collaboration features on such platforms. Some file transfer services allow you to send files without creating an account — the recipient accesses the files through a download link. 

With some services, you can set a maximum number of downloads per transfer, providing additional control over how many times your shared files can be accessed. Many professional file transfer services provide transfer notifications, alerting you when recipients download your files so you can confirm successful delivery.

Some advanced file transfer services offer resumable uploads, allowing you to continue your file transfer from where it left off if your connection drops, which is particularly valuable for extremely large files. Some also support deferred sending, allowing you to schedule file transfers for a future date and time when it might be more convenient for recipients.

1. WeTransfer

WeTransfer is a file-sharing service that allows users to share files and photos online. When using WeTransfer, the service emails your recipient a dedicated download link along with any message you include. This eliminates the need for the recipient to create an account, as they can simply click the link in their email to access and download the files directly.

The platform has a free plan that allows you to send files up to 2GB. The download link expires after seven days on the free plan. 

Luckily, WeTransfer works for both individuals and teams due to its many features. All the data shared through WeTransfer is encrypted regardless of your chosen plan. Check out our article on how to share files using WeTransfer for deeper insights. 

2. Jumpshare

Jumpshare is a platform that allows users to share files, record videos and capture screenshots. The platform supports more than 200 file formats; recipients receive the files in link format. Jumpshare’s drag-and-drop feature makes it easy to upload files.

You can use this file-sharing service over the web on Mac, Windows or iOS devices. Jumpshare has a free plan with a 250MB file size upload limit and 2GB of storage. Our in-depth Jumpshare review highlights everything you need to know. 

3. Rakuten Drive

Rakuten Drive is a service that allows you to send up to 100GB of large files. You can share the files in individual or team folders with just a few clicks. The platform allows you to set folder permissions, passwords and expiration dates.

You can connect Rakuten Drive to your company email to send files. This service also integrates with tools like Chatwork and Slack to ease communication. 

4. MyAirBridge

MyAirBridge allows you to upload files on its server and send them via a live link or email. You can also customize the expiration date on the files you transfer. 

MyAirBridge offers a free package (called “guest”) that does not include a storage feature. You can send up to 250GB on the Pro plan or unlimited files on the Enterprise plan. Select the interface you want to use with this platform (PC or mobile) and start sharing files with family and friends. 

5. Brandfolder

Brandfolder offers an easy way for creatives and marketers to manage and distribute their files and assets. The user-level permission feature on this platform ensures that the recipients use the assets as required. 

To send files, simply create a collection with the files you want to share. You can then share the files with internal users and set permissions on who can view, update or download the files. You can also set the collections as public or private. With the private setting, users need a password to access the files. 

6. FileZilla

FileZilla is a multi-platform, open-source file transfer protocol (FTP) client and server. This service uploads files from your local machine to a web server. You can simply drag and drop files and folders in FileZilla to share them. 

This service supports SFTP and FTPS file transfer protocols. FileZilla is available in different languages. Simply download FileZilla to your Windows or Mac computer to start sharing files. FileZilla is suitable for website file management and deployments. 

Other Ways to Send Large Files

Cloud sharing and file transfer services are not the only ways to share files. You can also transfer your files using the following approaches:

Transfer Files with SFTP

Secure file transfer protocol (SFTP) works similarly to FTP. However, SFTP has an encryption shell that ensures the data you share is secure. This file transfer service uses SSH protocol to authenticate and establish secure connections. You can also use passwords to secure your files. 

Most SFTP protocols are command-line based. However, there are also GUI (graphical user interface) clients like FileZilla or Cyberduck for everyday users. SFTP is ideal when you want to send large files that contain sensitive data. 

Use a USB Drive

Most modern gadgets have USB ports that allow you to transfer data from one device to another. USB drives have varying capacities, from 1GB to 2TB. Simply plug your USB into your computer, locate your files and copy them into the drive. 

USB drives are suitable for home use or a small office. You can also use a USB drive as backup storage when you don’t have a lot of space on your computer.

Compress Files & Email

Some files are huge and may take a lot of time to upload to cloud servers, file transfer services or even emails. However, you can compress and zip the files to make them smaller. You can then send the files using cloud services or email. 

Most operating systems, like Windows, MacOS and Ubuntu, have a built-in feature that allows you to compress files. For instance, to compress files on Windows, right-click on the file or folder you want to send, navigate to “compress to” in the dropdown menu and select “ZIP file.”

The resulting ZIP file will be smaller than the original, potentially bringing it under email attachment limits. Once compressed, you can attach this file directly to your email without needing third-party services. However, you can also use online tools or download file compression apps that suit your operating system. 

How to Send Large Files via Email Attachment

The best way to send large files via email attachment is to upload your files to a cloud service like Sync.com, Dropbox, Google Drive or OneDrive and then email the link. That way you avoid the attachment limit of around 25MB.

The beauty of uploading files to a cloud service and emailing a link is that all changes synchronize automatically. This way, you don’t have to send the recipients a new email every time there is an update. The choice of cloud system will depend on the features and prices you are looking for. 

How to Send Files Securely

Sharing files by email can be catastrophic if a man-in-the-middle attack targets you, especially while you’re sharing sensitive information like financial projects or employee data. Using file sharing services or cloud storage services offer extra security that you can get with email transfer.

For businesses in regulated industries, look for file transfer solutions with enterprise compliance certifications such as HIPAA, GDPR, ISO27001 and SOC 2 Type 2 to ensure your file transfers meet legal requirements.

Many premium cloud storage services like pCloud offer zero-knowledge encryption, ensuring that only you have the keys to decrypt your files — not even the service provider can access your data.

However, if you’re looking for a secure option with extra privacy, you might consider using services like Meshnet or OnionShare. 

NordVPN Meshnet

Meshnet is a free service offered by NordVPN, which ranks among the best VPNs in all our reviews. However, you do not have to subscribe to NordVPN to access it. To use Meshnet, create a free account and download the Meshnet application on your devices.

Meshnet establishes a peer-to-peer connection, allowing you to connect two devices. For instance, you can share files from your phone to your computer through Meshnet. The beauty of Meshnet is that it encrypts the connection, making it hard for hackers to intercept. We have an in-depth article on how Meshnet works for more information. 

OnionShare

OnionShare is an open-source tool for sending files, chatting with friends and hosting websites. This tool allows you to share files anonymously and is available as a desktop app for Windows, Mac and Linux operating systems. It is also available for mobile devices running on Android and iOS. 

The sender and receiver need to download the TOR browser to use OnionShare. Simply drag your files to the OnionShare dashboard and click “share.” You can customize your privacy settings, such as deleting the file after the recipient downloads it. You can share the OnionShare address through the chat box or email it to your recipient. 

Final Thoughts 

You can send large files using cloud services, file transfer services, FTP, SFTP or USB drives. Cloud services like Sync.com are the best option if you value speed, security and privacy. Options like a USB drive work for small organizations where everyone is in the same office or homestead. 

Which method of sending large files suits your needs? Are you sure the files are safe and secure when you send them via your chosen method? Do you know of a tool that we may have left out? Let us know in the comments section. Thank you for reading. 

FAQ: Ways to Send Large Files

• How Can I Send 20GB for Free?

  MEGA offers 20GB on its free plan. You can also get up to 35GB of free space for a year after completing some basic tasks.

• Can I Send Large Files via Gmail?

  Gmail limits the size of attachments to 25MB. However, you can upload up to 15GB to Google Drive and share the link via email. Alternatively, you can compress and send the zipped files as attachments in Gmail.

• How Can I Send Large Files Privately?

  The best approach to sending files privately is using encrypted services such as cloud storage. For instance, Sync.com offers end-to-end encryption to ensure your files are accessible only to the intended users.

• How to Send Large Video Files?

  Several approaches exist, such as using a USB drive, zipping the files, using video sharing platforms like Vimeo or turning to cloud storage. However, cloud storage services like Sync.com, Google Drive and Dropbox are the most efficient due to their collaboration and auto-sync features.