There are many ways you can transfer files between computers. Here’s a few methods. We can transfer files between two hosts on Linux using the scp command. The scp command establishes a secure connection between the two hosts and it uses the standard SSH port in order to transfer files. Alternatively, many people send files as attachments although there are often limitations with this method. Or users frequently use file hosting services in the cloud, WebTorrents, a personal server, wormhole and many others.
We are always on the look out for easy, simple and secure ways to transfer files and folders.
Many of the tools in this roundup are good replacements for AirDrop, letting you wirelessly send documents, photos, videos, websites, map locations, and more to a nearby device.
Here’s our verdict captured in a legendary LinuxLinks-style ratings chart. Only free and open source software is eligible for inclusion here.
Let’s explore the file sharing tools in more detail. Click the links below to learn all about each tool.
| File Sharing Tools | |
|---|---|
| LocalSend | Cross-platform alternative to AirDrop |
| Croc | Securely transfer files and folders |
| Magic Wormhole | Provides a library and a command-line tool named wormhole |
| ShareDrop | Web application inspired by AirDrop |
| PairDrop | Transfer files with no setup and no signup |
| Snapdrop | Local file sharing in your browser |
| Flying Carpet | Cross-platform AirDrop alternative |
| Warpinator | Share files across the LAN |
| Warp | Fast and secure file transfer over the internet or local network |
| Send | Simple private file sharing. Fork of the discontinued Firefox Send. |
| Rymdport | File, folder and text sharing |
| KDE Connect | Wireless communications and data transfer between devices |
| GSConnect | Complete implementation of KDE Connect |
| qrcp | Transfer files over Wi-Fi from your computer to a mobile device |
| Valent | Connect, control and sync devices |
| dragit | Intuitive file sharing between devices |
| Sharik | Share files via Wi-Fi or mobile hotspot |
| QuickDAV | Transfer files between devices |
| GopherDrop | Secure One-Time Secret Sharing |
| Packet | Implementation of the Google Quick Share protocol |
This article has been revamped in line with our recent announcement.
 Explore our comprehensive directory of recommended free and open source software. Our carefully curated collection spans every major software category.This directory is part of our ongoing series of informative articles for Linux enthusiasts. It features hundreds of detailed reviews, along with open source alternatives to proprietary solutions from major corporations such as Google, Microsoft, Apple, Adobe, IBM, Cisco, Oracle, and Autodesk. You’ll also find interesting projects to try, hardware coverage, free programming books and tutorials, and much more. Know a useful open source Linux program that we haven’t covered yet? Let us know by completing this form. |
What about SyncThing?
That’s peer-to-peer file sync software, a different kettle of fish really.