Are you interested in moving files between devices? It doesn’t matter which platforms are involved. Ubuntu, Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android – among the several benefits of using Linux is the array of options that exist for different computer operations including wireless file transfer.
In today’s article, we highlight more than a handful of the best ways for wirelessly transferring files between platforms. The mentioned apps don’t all share the same transfer protocols, user interface, permissions, or features so make sure that you review them yourself before choosing.
1. Syncthing
Syncthing is a free, open-source, and portable continuous file synchronization program for safely transferring files between two or more computers in real-time. It features a beautiful user interface, is available on all desktop platforms, does not require IP addresses or any advanced setup, and places emphasis on user privacy.
2. EasyJoin
EasyJoin is a cross-platform file sharing application for sending messages, files, folders, and URLs to any connected device without using an active Internet connection. It features a modern user interface, SMS filters, remote control device functionality, desktop notifications, call management, etc. Check out more on EasyJoin on FossMint.
3. Warpinator
Warpinator is a free and open-source application for sending and receiving files to and from devices connected to the same network. To work, Warpinator requires a group code for the connected systems, and firewall permissions.
4. KDE Connect
KDE Connect is an open-source application that enables remote connection functions between Linux and Android devices that have it installed.
It delegates plug-ins to different remote functions (such as wireless file transfer) and they need to be activated on both devices in use to work. Other features in KDE Connect include mouse control function, remote terminal commands function, and availability for macOS and Windows.
5. DAEMON Sync
DAEMON Sync is a free, proprietary application for sharing files from a computer to multiple iOS and Android devices over a wireless connection. It features a minimalist UI, requires no Internet connection. Check out more on DAEMON Sync here.
6. Rsync
Rsync is a free and open-source command-line tool for creating backups remotely and it doubles as a file-sharing app. With Rsync, users can securely transfer files to other Linux and non-Linux devices using SSH. All you need to know is the right command.
7. Flying Carpet
Flying Carpet is a cross-platform, open-source software that enables users to share files using the radio transmitter of the WiFi cards involved in a broadcast. While this means that you don’t need Bluetooth or an active Internet connection, you need to keep the devices in close proximity to each other.
When you use Flying Carpet, it temporarily keeps you disconnected in order to use your WiFI card’s radio transmitter. On the receiver’s end, it generates a password that must be entered by the sender to commence the transfer. Just in case, you may need to have port 3290 open on the receiving device’s firewall for a successful transfer.
8. Wormhole
Wormhole is an open-source command-line tool for securely and wirelessly sharing text, files, and (automatically zipped) folders to anyone. It puts a lot of emphasis on security as it uses Password-Authenticated Key Exchange for encrypting data which it then shares using TCP. Check out more details on Wormhole here.
9. Portal
Portal by Pushbullet is a nifty web app that enables users to transfer files between devices that have it active over a local connection. It requires no installation but rather a QR code with which it establishes a connection between a computer and phone. The free version of Portal puts a 256MB cap on file transfers but none for premium users.
10. LAN Share
LAN Share enables users to share files between Linux and Windows computers over a local Internet connection. it is fast and capable of transferring entire folders at once – no password required, which may be a security flaw depending on who you are. In any case, LAN Share has not been updated for over 2 years so check out its alternatives first.
11. GSConnect
GSConnect is the GNOME equivalent of KDE Connect with the same functions. While it doesn’t require the KDE and Qt dependencies required by KDE Connect, you will need the KDE Connect app installed on your Android device to work with it. In addition, it supports extensions for Chrome and Firefox and Nautilus file explorer.
12. Android File Transfer for Linux
Android File Transfer for Linux is a free and open-source media transfer protocol client for easily transferring unlimited files between a Linux desktop and any Android device wirelessly. It is integrated with the FUSE wrapper for mounting devices, supports CLI commands, and is available as a shared library. Learn more about Android File Transfer for Linux on FossMint.
13. Bluetooth
This is an obvious option for many and it doesn’t require any extra steps since many distros ship with a Bluetooth config and user interface (e.g. Blueman on Ubuntu, Blueberry on LinuxMint). You can even make use of extra configuration tools by installing BlueZ packages. So before installing any new apps, see if the good ol’ Bluetooth sorts you out.
Did your favorite wireless file transfer app make it to the list? Are there new apps that are worthy of checking out? Make suggestions and let us know about your experience below.
