How to use LocalSend on Windows 11 to transfer files across your network

LocalSend is an open-source file-sharing tool that transfers files over your local wireless network without internet access.
Works across Windows 11, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, allowing quick cross-platform file transfers without complicated setups.
Files are shared directly between devices, meaning data never leaves the local network or goes through cloud services.

On Windows 11, you have multiple ways to share files with other people on the network, including configuring your computer to work as a NAS (Network Attached Storage) by setting up file sharing or using the Windows Share experience. However, there’s a third option using LocalSend.

LocalSend is an open-source, cross-platform file-sharing tool that works over your local wireless network between desktops, laptops, tablets, and mobile phones.

The app is straightforward, secure, and provides a quick way to transfer content without an internet connection, so you know the file won’t have to travel outside your local network or use third-party networks.

The experience is similar to the Windows Share feature, but it’ll also remind you of Apple’s AirDrop feature or the Google Quick Share tool for Windows 11. However, LocalSend focuses on privacy because it lets you send files, folders, and text between devices instantly, and it works across Windows 11, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.

In this guide, you’ll learn the steps to set up and use LocalSend on Windows 11.

Share files on local network using LocalSend on Windows 11
FAQs about using LocalSend on Windows 11 to share files locally

Share files on local network using LocalSend on Windows 11

To easily share files in your local network using LocalSend on Windows 11, follow these steps:

Open Start on Windows 11.
Search for Command Prompt (or Terminal), right-click the top result, and choose the Run as administrator option.
Type this command to install the LocalSend app on Windows 11 and press Enter:
```
winget install --id LocalSend.LocalSend
```
Quick tip: Alternatively, you can download the app directly from the official site, where you’ll find the options to install for Linux, Android, iOS, and macOS.
Repeat steps 1 through 5 to install the tool on other computers (if applicable).
Open the LocalSend app from the Start menu.

Quick note: You must start the app on the devices participating in the transaction.
Click on Send from the left pane in the source device.

Quick note: In the section, the tool will list all the nearby devices that have LocalSend running.
Select the type of content to share, including file, folder, text, or clipboard history.
Choose the device to share the content from the list.

Quick note: The app assigns a device name automatically, but only for sharing purposes. This doesn’t rename the computer.
Click the Accept button to confirm the shared content on the destination device.

Once you complete the steps, the file, folder, or content will be available on the destination computer.

The app also includes several configuration options. For example, you can change the color mode, choose the default download folder, require a PIN for transfers, and adjust other basic settings.

Keep in mind that this tool is designed for quick, one-time transfers. If you need collaboration or centralized file sharing for a team, a more traditional setup is still the better approach, such as creating a shared folder and making it accessible over the local network.

One of the main advantages is privacy. Files remain on your local network, meaning no data is uploaded to external servers, and the service does not include tracking or advertising.

The transfer process relies on a secure communication protocol using HTTPS with on-the-fly TLS encryption. You do not need to create an account, sign in, or link an email address. The app lets you send entire folders or multiple files at once, and it even supports sharing text snippets, which is useful for long URLs or Wi-Fi passwords.

FAQs about using LocalSend on Windows 11 to share files locally

Here’s a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) and answers about sharing files in the local network using LocalSend on Windows 11.

What is LocalSend and how does it work?

LocalSend is an open-source file-sharing app that transfers files directly between devices over a local wireless network. It works without an internet connection or cloud services, allowing you to send files, folders, and text securely between devices such as Windows 11 PCs, Macs, Linux systems, Android phones, and iPhones.

Does LocalSend require internet or cloud storage?

LocalSend does not require internet access or cloud storage. The tool transfers files directly between devices connected to the same local network, ensuring data never leaves your network. This approach improves privacy, reduces transfer delays, and eliminates the need to upload files to external servers.

How do you install LocalSend on Windows 11?

You can install LocalSend on Windows 11 using the Windows Package Manager. Open Command Prompt or Terminal as administrator and run the command winget install --id LocalSend.LocalSend. Once installed, launch the app from the Start menu and make sure it is running on all devices involved in the transfer.

How do you share files using LocalSend on Windows 11?

To share files with LocalSend on Windows 11, open the app and choose the “Send” option. Select the file, folder, text, or clipboard content you want to transfer, then choose a nearby device running LocalSend. The destination device must accept the transfer before the content is received.

Is LocalSend secure for transferring files?

LocalSend is designed with security and privacy in mind. File transfers occur directly between devices on the same network and use HTTPS communication with TLS encryption. Because files are not uploaded to cloud servers and no account is required, the risk of third-party tracking or exposure is reduced.

LocalSend vs AirDrop: what’s the difference?

LocalSend and AirDrop both transfer files between nearby devices, but LocalSend is cross-platform. While AirDrop works mainly within Apple devices, LocalSend supports Windows 11 (and 10), macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. This makes it useful for sharing files between different operating systems without relying on proprietary ecosystems.

When should you use LocalSend instead of Windows 11 file sharing?

LocalSend is best for quick, one-time file transfers between nearby devices. Traditional file sharing or NAS setups are better suited for long-term access, collaboration, or centralized storage. LocalSend focuses on simplicity and speed, while network shares provide persistent access to shared folders.

Can LocalSend transfer large files?

Yes. LocalSend can transfer large files because it sends data directly between devices on the local network rather than uploading it to a cloud service. The main limitations depend on the speed and stability of the network connection and the available storage space on the receiving device.

Why are nearby devices not appearing in LocalSend?

Devices may not appear in LocalSend if they are not connected to the same network, the app is not open on both devices, or the firewall is blocking network discovery. Ensuring the app is running, both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network, and local network access is allowed usually resolves the issue.