iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
LocalSend transfers photos, videos, documents, folders, and text directly between nearby Android, iPhone, Windows, Mac, Linux, and Fire OS devices. Install it on both devices, connect them to the same non-isolated Wi-Fi network or wired LAN, open the app, choose the receiving device, and accept the request. The file payload stays on that local network, so neither an internet connection nor a cloud account is required.
If the other device does not appear, check local-network permissions, the Windows network profile, firewalls, VPN settings, and guest-network isolation before trying manual IP sending.
What LocalSend does and when to use it
LocalSend is a free, open-source application for sharing files and messages with nearby devices over a local network. It supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and Fire OS. You do not create an account, sign in, upload files to a cloud service, or depend on an internet connection for the transfer itself.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
LocalSend uses the local Wi-Fi network or wired LAN for discovery and transfer. The project documentation says transfers use HTTPS, with each device generating its TLS/SSL certificate on the fly. Optional PIN verification adds another recipient check. These properties make LocalSend useful when the two devices use different operating systems, such as sending iPhone photos to a Windows PC or moving an Android folder to a Mac.
#1 Best Overall
- Powerful Turbo Fan:CAGIWIRU Electric Air Duster have reached speed up to 130000RPM,Can efficient remove dust and debris.With LED light and Three Adjustable Speed to meet with different cleaning tasks.
- With Attached USB C Fasting Charging cable.Charing 3 hours,Enjoy up to 240 minutes of use on the lowest setting, For third speed can use for 25mins.with four charging options to meet with your needs.
- Wide Application: attached 5 different nozzles,making it suitable for a variety of scenes, such as car,pet, pc, keyboards, and other electronic devices. It also serves for office and home clean duster.
- Handy Design & Portable:Cordless air duster electric nozzle is Light weight and small size, design and comfortable to hold and space saving, convenient to carry around. You can put it in your room or inside the car without taking up space.
- Economical &Reusable: Built durable materials with a long-lasting battery,our CAGIWIRU air duster it's a sustainable alternative to disposable air cans.
LocalSend is not a remote-transfer service. The devices must be able to reach one another on the same local network. A guest network that isolates clients, a firewall, a VPN, or a missing operating-system permission can prevent discovery even when both devices show the same Wi-Fi name.
Requirements and supported platforms
Install the application on both the sender and receiver. The current LocalSend compatibility table lists these minimum versions; platform support can change, so check the project’s current table when preparing an older device.
| Platform | Minimum version listed by the project | Installation and permission notes |
|---|---|---|
| Android | Android 5.0 | Install through the Play Store, F-Droid, or another distribution channel listed by the project. Choosing a custom destination may require folder permission. |
| iPhone and iPad | iOS 12.0 | Install from the App Store and allow Local Network access in iOS settings. |
| Windows | Windows 10 | Use the signed Windows build or another package listed by the project. A Private network profile and a firewall exception may be needed. |
| Mac | macOS 11 Big Sur | Install the macOS build or App Store version and allow Local Network access under Privacy settings. |
| Linux | Not stated in the cited compatibility table | Choose a package matching your distribution, such as Flathub, Nix, Snap, or AUR. A firewall may need TCP and UDP port 53317. |
| Fire OS | Not stated in the cited compatibility table | Use a project-listed distribution compatible with the device. |
Both devices may be on Wi-Fi, or one may use Ethernet, provided they are on the same reachable LAN. The internet is not required for the file payload. A functioning local router or access point is still normally needed to place the devices on one network.
Set up LocalSend on both devices
- Install the app. Download LocalSend from the official project site or use the platform’s app store or package manager. On Linux, select the package format that matches your distribution.
- Join the same network. Connect both devices to the same home or office Wi-Fi, or connect them to the same wired LAN. Avoid a guest SSID until you know it permits device-to-device traffic.
- Open LocalSend on both ends. Leave the app running in the foreground while testing. Nearby devices should populate automatically when network discovery is permitted.
- Confirm receiving behavior. Keep receive confirmation enabled on networks you do not fully control. This makes the receiver review each request instead of accepting an unexpected transfer automatically.
- Check the destination setting. Downloads is the default save location. You can choose another folder in LocalSend settings, subject to the operating system’s storage permissions.
Transfer files between any two supported devices
The same sequence works for Android-to-iPhone, iPhone-to-Windows, Windows-to-Mac, Mac-to-Linux, and other combinations.
1. Choose the content on the sending device
Open LocalSend and select the send action. Choose one or more photos, videos, documents, folders, or text. Folder support is useful for preserving a group of files without selecting each item individually, although the destination operating system may present the result as a folder or archive-like selection depending on its file picker.
2. Select the recipient
Tap or click the receiving device shown in the nearby-device list. Device names can be changed in LocalSend settings, so confirm the name against the physical device before sending sensitive material.
Rank #2
- Screen Cleaner is Your Screen’s New Bestfriend! - EVEO is proud to present a screen cleaner that’s perfectly suited for your TV. Meet your new screen cleaner, computer screen cleaner, laptop cleaner, iPad cleaner, Macbook,tv cleaner or any other electronic device. Our screen cleaner spray and wipe along with the included plush microfiber cloth, easily removes dust, fingerprints & other smudges on the screen’s surface. Clean effectively for a streak-free screen
- Gentle on your Screens - Our screen cleaner spray and wipes is compatible to be used even for the most sensitive LCD, LED, CRT, and OLED screens in proper use. Be at ease knowing that this product is compatible with all the major brands: LG, SONY, Samsung, Sharp, iPad, iPhone, Android screens, Kindle, PC monitors - we’ve got you covered! Can be used as LCD screen cleaner, tv cleaner, smart tv screen cleaner, and more
- Premium Super Soft Plush Microfiber Cloth - Included in this efficient screen cleaning kit. This screen cleaner spray and wipe has our signature plush microfiber cloth specially designed to comply with screens and monitors and leave them streak-free. Has been shown to effectively absorbs stubborn stains, zero streaks, and no fiber shedding. Always use this together with our screen cleaner for the best results
- Easy-to-Use Screen Cleaner Kit + microfiber cleaning cloth - The EVEO Screen Cleaning Kit will easily be your new favorite tool when it comes to taking care of the things you love most, quick and easy solution for a streak-free screen. Simply screw on the sprayer gun on the screen cleaner bottle. Spray the cleaning liquid onto the microfiber cloth, then wipe the screen until desired cleanliness & shine is achieved.
- Quality Screen Care Kit Worth Purchasing - Enjoy a convenient Screen Cleaner anytime, anywhere you need it. Your satisfaction is our top priority. We stand behind the quality of our products and that’s why, you shouldn’t be worrying at all. We manufacture the Best Screen Cleaner. and can be used for laptop cleaning kit, laptop screen cleaner, tv screen cleaner for smart tv. MacBook screen cleaner, monitor cleaner or screen cleaner spray for electronic devices with microfiber cleaning cloth
3. Accept on the receiving device
The receiver displays a request with the sender and selected content. Review it and choose Accept. If the request is unexpected, reject it. On a shared network, do not assume that every discovered device belongs to someone you know.
Recommended Free Tools
4. Wait for completion and verify the result
Leave both devices awake and LocalSend open until the transfer completes. Open the destination folder or file to confirm that the expected items arrived. By default, received files are saved in Downloads; a different location can be selected in settings.
Platform-specific instructions
Android
Install LocalSend from the Play Store, F-Droid, or another distribution channel listed by the project. Android’s storage model can ask for permission when you select a custom destination folder. Grant only the access needed for the folder you intend to use, then return to LocalSend and repeat the save operation if the first attempt was interrupted.
For an Android sender, use the system share or file picker to select photos, videos, documents, or a folder. For an Android receiver, look in Downloads unless you changed the destination. If Android pauses the app in the background, keep LocalSend visible during a large transfer and disable battery restrictions for the duration when necessary.
iPhone and iPad
Install LocalSend from the App Store. When iOS asks for Local Network access, choose Allow. If it was denied, open Settings, find LocalSend, and enable Local Network. Without that permission, the app may not discover devices on the same Wi-Fi.
To send, select files or photos in LocalSend and choose the target device. To receive, accept the request and then use the Files app or the destination shown by LocalSend to locate the downloaded item. iOS may display a share or save prompt when moving an item from LocalSend into another app.
Rank #3
- 【Large size】：Measuring 800 x 300 mm/ 31. 5×12 inches, which is wider and taller than others. Large mouse pad can perfectly fit your keyboard and mouse of any size, and there is also ample space for peripherals such as phones, tablets, etc.
- 【LED backlight mouse pad】：Blade Hawks RGB mouse pad provides 7 static modes and 7 dynamic modes will give you the options you are looking for. Power-off memory function remembers the last lighting mode you selected. The super glow fiber Chroma will give you a colorful gaming setup that you want.
- 【Anti-slip rubber base】：Made from Natural rubber, this gaming mousepad will firmly grip your desktop, allowing you to enjoy the ultimate precision in the games you are most passionate about. It also comes with a texture that enhances this ability even further.
- 【Smooth and waterproof surface】: Micro-textured cloth surface, for extremely precise mouse control and a smooth movement. When liquid splashes on the gaming mouse pad, it forms water droplets and slides down. Will not delay your work or gameplay.
- 【Plug and play】: This mouse and keyboard pad is powered by USB, plug and play, no driver required. One button control light modes. Press one time to change the lighting mode, press twice to change the brightness, press and hold about 3 seconds turn ON/OFF.
Windows
Install the signed Windows build or another package listed by the project. If Windows asks whether LocalSend may communicate on networks, permit it on your trusted Private network. A Public profile is more restrictive and commonly prevents discovery.
To change the profile, open Windows Settings, choose Network & internet, select the active Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection, and set Network profile to Private when that network is trusted. In Windows Defender Firewall, allow LocalSend through the firewall for the appropriate private network. Do not broadly disable the firewall as a troubleshooting shortcut.
Mac
Install the macOS build or App Store version. In System Settings, open Privacy & Security, choose Local Network, and enable LocalSend. If the permission prompt was dismissed earlier, changing this setting and restarting the app can restore discovery.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Received items normally appear in Downloads unless you selected another destination. macOS may also request permission to access a folder; approve it only if that folder is the intended save location.
Linux
Use the package format or package manager appropriate for your distribution. The project lists options including Flathub, Nix, Snap, and AUR. Flatpak or another sandboxed package can require an additional permission before it can read a chosen source folder or write to a custom destination.
If the Linux host runs a firewall, allow LocalSend’s documented incoming TCP and UDP port 53317. Outgoing traffic may use any port, so an outbound-only rule is not sufficient for every firewall configuration.
Rank #4
- 【Softer and More Comfortable】Vaydeer wrist rest has unique diamond pattern, which is the combination of softness and aesthetics. The materials of wrist rest are improved into higher quality memory foam and covered with silky smooth lycra. The computer wrist rest makes you as comfortable and cushiony as like rest your wrists on clouds.
- 【Ergonomic Wrist Saver】The wrist rests for keyboard and mouse comes with a 17.32×3.15×0.83 inch keyboard wrist pad and a 5.94×3.15×0.83 inch mouse wrist support. Based on ergonomic design, the unique concave shape is the perfect fit for your wrist joints. The wrist rest pad fits most computer keyboards and laptops, improve hand and wrist posture, release your wrist and arm stress.
- 【Non-Slip Rubber Bottom】Featuring an anti-skid silicone base on the bottom, this wrist keyboard support stays firmly in place on your desk, preventing the padding from sliding around, ensuring stable and consistent wrist support during extended computer sessions.
- 【Better Experience & Pain Relief】Our keyboard arm rest is beneficial to alleviate the soreness caused by direct contact and friction between your arm and a hard desk surface, reducing the risk of wrist fatigue or carpal tunnel. The soft texture of memory foam can evenly distribute the pressure around your wrists and provide good support with just enough give.
- 【Helpful in Multiple Scenarios】Whether you're working, studying, writing, typing, gaming, this keyboard and mouse rest combo is an essential accessory to add comfort and support to your hands and wrists. It’s also a great gift for men, women, family, friend, coworker, gamer, teacher, etc.
Fix discovery when the other device is missing
Work through these checks in order. After each change, close and reopen LocalSend on both devices and look again at the nearby-device list.
1. Confirm the network path
- Verify the Wi-Fi name or wired network is actually the same on both devices. A phone on a guest SSID and a computer on the main SSID are often separated even when both have internet access.
- Check for client isolation, also called AP isolation or wireless isolation, on the access point. Guest Wi-Fi commonly enables it. Move both devices to the main network or disable isolation only when you administer the network and understand the security effect.
- Do not use a captive-portal network that has not completed sign-in. It may block local traffic until authentication finishes.
2. Check operating-system permissions
- On iPhone or iPad, enable Local Network for LocalSend in Settings.
- On Mac, enable Local Network for LocalSend under System Settings, Privacy & Security.
- On Windows, use a Private network profile and allow LocalSend through Windows Firewall.
- On Android and Linux, verify that storage or sandbox permissions allow LocalSend to read the selected files and write the destination.
3. Check firewalls and the documented port
LocalSend’s project documentation identifies TCP and UDP port 53317 for incoming traffic. Permit both protocols on the local firewall for the LocalSend application or port. Outgoing traffic may use any port. A corporate firewall, endpoint-security suite, or router ACL can still block local discovery even after a device firewall rule is added.
4. Test VPN and network-filtering software
A VPN may route or isolate local traffic. Enable its “allow LAN” or equivalent option, or disconnect it temporarily while transferring on a trusted network. Also check security software that advertises network protection or device isolation. Re-enable protections after the transfer if you temporarily changed them.
5. Use manual IP sending
If automatic discovery remains unavailable but both devices can communicate on the LAN, use LocalSend’s manual-send option and enter the receiver’s IP address directly. Find the receiver’s address in its Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection details, enter it exactly as shown, and then accept the request on that device. Manual addressing bypasses discovery; it does not bypass a firewall, client isolation, or an incorrect network route.
Find files and choose a different destination
LocalSend saves received files to Downloads by default. Open the app’s settings to select another destination folder. On desktop systems, choose a location with enough free space and normal write permission. On mobile systems, the operating system may show a folder-access prompt when you select a custom location.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
If a transfer appears complete but the file is not visible, search the destination device for the filename, inspect Downloads and the app’s configured folder, and check whether the operating system moved the item into a media or document category. A file manager may hide extensions or sort by date, so verify the full filename and modification time.
Best Value
- 【No Drill Mounted】Cable management tray can be assembled in as little as 3 minutes or less-simply. Side clips easily clampe the edge of desk, pass through the holes on the sides, and secure excess cables with baskets. Desk cable management supports inward or outward installation to meet your needs in different scenarios, and provides you with great convenience when collecting and organizing wires.
- 【Rubber Pad Protects Desk】Wire organizer under desk built-in soft rubber pads on the clamp protect your desk from scratches, so you will not damage your furniture or office.
- 【Sturdy and Beautiful】Cord management under desk is made of high-quality carbon steel and holds about 15 lbs. The wire basket has 2 holes on each side of the tray to enable your cables to pass freely. Cable baskets are suitable for desk thickness use from 0.4" to 2.4".
- 【Space Saving & Keep Organized】Desk cable management tray holds all your power cords, outlet strips, USB hubs and computer transformers hidden from your feet, and the data cables will not enter the vacuum cleaner to keep your desk clean and tidy. Desk wire organizer is also suitable for use in the kitchen and outdoors.
- 【Reduce Safety Risks】Cable tray under desk keeps all plugs away from your kids, no more worry about tripping. Using 2 holes wire tray saves extra space, helps you easily cabling and wire protection. The mesh design is not easy to accumulate dust, but avoids safety accidents caused by messy wires.
Security and privacy during a transfer
Encryption in transit
LocalSend documentation states that data is sent over HTTPS. Each device creates its TLS/SSL certificate on the fly. This protects the transfer while it crosses the local network, but it does not turn an untrusted network into a trusted one.
Recipient confirmation and PIN verification
Keep receive confirmation enabled when using hotel, school, office, or other shared networks. Check the displayed device name before accepting. LocalSend also offers optional PIN verification for additional control; configure it when you want a second confirmation beyond the device name and acceptance prompt.
Network trust still matters
Any device that can reach the same local network may be able to present itself for discovery. Use a network you control, avoid accepting unexpected requests, and use client isolation or a separate trusted network when the environment contains untrusted users. The local nature of the transfer means files are not uploaded to a cloud provider, but it does not remove the need to authenticate the recipient at the human level.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesPractical cross-platform examples
Android to iPhone
- Connect both phones to the same non-isolated Wi-Fi.
- Open LocalSend and allow Local Network access on the iPhone.
- On Android, choose the photos or folder, then tap the iPhone’s device name.
- Accept on the iPhone and save the received items to Files or another destination offered by iOS.
iPhone to Windows PC without iCloud
- Connect the iPhone and PC to the same trusted Wi-Fi.
- On the iPhone, confirm Local Network permission and select the photos in LocalSend.
- Choose the Windows device and accept the request on the PC.
- Open the configured Windows destination, normally Downloads, and verify the files.
Windows or Mac to Linux
- Install the package matching the Linux distribution and open LocalSend on both computers.
- If the Linux firewall is enabled, allow incoming TCP and UDP 53317.
- Select the files or folder on Windows or Mac, choose the Linux device, and accept on Linux.
- Check Downloads or the destination configured in LocalSend.
LocalSend compared with other transfer methods
The best method depends on whether the devices are nearby, whether you trust the network, and whether you need a cable or removable media. Transfer speed is not ranked here: it varies with Wi-Fi band, congestion, hardware, file mix, and encryption settings, and the cited project material does not provide a controlled benchmark.
| Method | Internet or account | Platform coverage | Privacy and setup | Folders and large files |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LocalSend | No internet for the payload; no account | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Fire OS | Local network, HTTPS, recipient confirmation, optional PIN; install on both devices | Supports folders and ordinary files; limited by local storage and network conditions |
| Cloud storage | Usually internet and an account | Broad, if an app or browser is available | Convenient across locations, but files leave the local network and depend on provider storage and sharing controls | Good for folders and later access; upload and download are separate steps |
| AirDrop or Quick Share | Normally no account for nearby transfers | Best within their supported device ecosystems | Quick when the devices support the same system feature; cross-platform coverage is narrower than LocalSend | Varies by platform and receiving app |
| USB cable | No internet or account | Depends on ports, drivers, file-system support, and device permissions | Direct and private when the cable and computer are trusted; setup can involve drivers or “File Transfer” mode | Well suited to large batches when both devices expose storage access |
| USB drive | No internet or account | Works where the drive connector, adapter, and file system are supported | Requires physical handling and a compatible adapter; files reside on removable media during the handoff | Good for folders and large files, subject to drive capacity and format compatibility |
Limits, pitfalls, and recovery steps
- Same Wi-Fi name does not guarantee reachability. Guest networks and access-point isolation can block local device traffic. Move both endpoints to a trusted main network.
- A successful internet connection proves little. LocalSend needs peer-to-peer LAN access, not merely internet access through the same router.
- Permissions can fail silently. Revisit Local Network permission on Apple devices, firewall approval on Windows, and folder permissions on Android or Linux.
- Large transfers can be interrupted by sleep. Keep both devices powered and awake, and avoid switching networks mid-transfer.
- Destination storage matters. Free space must accommodate the selected files, and a custom folder must be writable by LocalSend.
- Manual IP entry is not a universal bypass. It cannot overcome client isolation, a blocked port, a VPN route, or an address from the wrong network interface.
- Do not accept an unknown request. On shared networks, verify the person and device before approving, even though the transfer is encrypted.
Bottom line
For a nearby transfer across different operating systems, LocalSend is a straightforward alternative to cloud storage: install it on both endpoints, use the same reachable Wi-Fi or LAN, select the recipient, and approve the request. When discovery fails, troubleshoot isolation, permissions, firewalls, VPNs, and TCP/UDP port 53317 before resorting to manual IP entry. Files remain on the local network and transfers use HTTPS, but recipient confirmation and network trust are still essential.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
