How To Send Large Files in 2024: Top 2024 Methods and Tools

Wondering how to share big files? Explore the best methods and tools available in 2024 for transferring large files. This guide highlights the top solutions to send large files securely and efficiently.

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IN THIS GUIDE, YOU’RE GOING TO READ THE 6 OPTIONS TO SEND LARGE FILES IN 2024:

1. File Transfer Service to Send Large Files

2. Zip Files

3. Upload to a Cloud Service and Share Links

4. USB or Hard Disk for Large File Transfers

5. SFTP

6. Files Upload API

Top ways to Send Large Files in 2024: What you need to know.

When it comes to sending large files, such as HD video files too big for email attachments, high-resolution photographs, or substantial audio files like podcasts or music drafts, finding the right transfer method is crucial.

If you need to move gigabytes of data for analysis, choosing the best file transfer solution can make all the difference.

To ensure a smooth file transfer, your chosen method should meet these four key criteria:

Security: Ensure your file transfer method is secure to protect sensitive information.

Speed: Choose a solution that delivers your files quickly without delays.
Cost-Effectiveness: While free options are available, consider services that offer good value for money, balancing cost and quality.
Simplicity: Select a method that is easy to use for both uploading and downloading files.

So, what are the best options for sharing large files, and how do you decide which one to use? Explore top methods and tips for effective file transfers.

How to Transfer Large Files Securely: 6 best methods

Struggling to share large files securely? Discover the top 6 proven methods to transfer massive files quickly and safely in 2024. Find the perfect solution for your needs today.

1. The easiest way to Send Large Files: use a File Transfer Service

Using a file transfer service to send large files is a safe, secure, fast, and straightforward method. Popular services like Smash and WeTransfer offer user-friendly drag-and-drop features, making the file-sharing process simple and efficient. The transfer speed depends largely on the internet connection speed at both ends. However, some file transfer services impose size limits on the files you can send and may display ads or media alongside your file.

2. Zip Files: A risky workaround for Large File Transfers

Email remains a popular choice for sharing files due to its widespread accessibility. Unfortunately, strict attachment size restrictions often hinder this process.

While compressing files into ZIP archives might seem like a quick fix, it's important to consider potential issues such as file corruption, increased spam risk, and environmental impact caused by long-term email storage.

To ensure smooth and sustainable file sharing, exploring alternative methods designed for larger files is highly recommended.

3. Upload Large Files to Cloud Services and Share Links Easily

When dealing with large files, email and compression often hit size limits. Fortunately, cloud services offer a seamless solution. Uploading large files to platforms like Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, or Dropbox is straightforward. Once uploaded, you can easily share a link via email, instant messaging, or even on a website.

4. Using USB Drives or External Hard Disks for Large File Transfers

While physically handing over a large file on a USB drive or external hard drive might seem like the most secure option, it's often impractical and inefficient.

This method is significantly slower than digital transfer methods, requires additional costs for the storage device, and introduces ongoing security risks.

Once the physical media is handed over, protecting the data becomes the recipient's responsibility. Fortunately, there are reliable and secure digital solutions available for transferring large files.

5. SFTP : Secure File Transfer Protocol

SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) is highly regarded for its robust security features. By encrypting data transmitted over the SSH protocol, SFTP ensures that files remain confidential throughout the transfer process. Additionally, its scalability is a significant advantage, allowing the transfer of large files without limitations, as long as adequate server resources are available.

Challenges with SFTP:

Firewall Issues: Configurations can interfere with SFTP connections.
SSH Key Management: Requires technical expertise for proper handling.
Client Requirements: A compatible SFTP client is necessary for managing transfers.

While SFTP offers excellent security and scalability, users must navigate potential challenges related to firewall settings, SSH key management, and the need for specific client software.

6. Files Upload API: optimize file transfers with an API solution

Struggling with slow and inefficient file transfers? The Smash API offers a streamlined solution to optimize your file sharing process. With just a few lines of code, you can effortlessly integrate our API into your existing workflows. Experience lightning-fast upload speeds and instant file availability for download.

Our API is designed with both security and affordability in mind. Enjoy peace of mind knowing your files are protected, while benefiting from competitive pricing starting at just €10 per month for 50GB of transfers. There's no limit to file size, ensuring you can handle any transfer challenge.

So, What’s Your Best Way to Transfer and Send Big Files?

Choosing the best method for transferring large files depends on your needs and circumstances. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

Email with ZIP Compression: Ideal for smaller files, this method allows you to compress and email files, but may not be suitable for larger sizes.

Cloud Storage: Perfect for occasional and non-urgent transfers, cloud storage solutions like Google Drive and Dropbox offer convenience and scalability.
Physical Media: USB drives or external hard drives are useful for sharing files with nearby recipients.

SFTP: Offers secure transfers for very large files, but may be cumbersome for frequent use due to configuration complexities.

Smash: The Ideal solution for Large File Transfers

For swift, secure, and unlimited large file transfers, Smash is the go-to solution for creative professionals, freelancers, and businesses of all sizes. Our platform not only ensures fast and reliable transfers but also provides customizable options to enhance your brand.

For those handling massive file transfers regularly, the Smash API offers unmatched speed, security, and scalability. Start your free 14-day trial with 100GB of transfers today—no credit card required!