LocalSend · Transfer files across your local network

A useful bridge between devices

LocalSend is a practical option when a photo, PDF or folder needs to move between different operating systems nearby. Its official documentation describes direct transfers over the local network using HTTPS, without an account or a third-party transfer server. It is a transfer tool: do not expect remote access, version history or continuous folder sync.

Start with one small transfer

Install the official app on both devices and put them on the same trusted network. Choose a small file, select the receiving device, approve the request on that device, then open the received file before sending a large batch. If discovery fails, check local-network permission, guest-network isolation and the app-specific firewall rules. The official default port is 53317 for TCP and UDP; keep changes limited to a network you control.

The publisher's desktop image below illustrates the receiving queue and per-file progress. It is an existing official illustration, not a screenshot of our testing or evidence of v1.18.2 performance.

An independent October 17 report by Lightning-Lion describes LocalSend 1.18.2 on macOS losing an unfinished text message when an incoming request closes the composition dialog. Issue #3605 remains open when checked on October 22. For important text, write it in a separate editor or send a saved file rather than relying on an unsaved in-app draft. This is a specific user report, not a finding reproduced by Boloop.

The v1.18.2 release also documents fixes for compatibility with older clients and peer redirects. Prefer an official distribution channel, confirm the receiving device before approval, and judge speed on your own network. Our recommendation is for simple cross-platform local transfers; it is based on documentation and reported use, not a promise of transfer speed or a security certification.