An open source multiplatform AirDrop alternative

Wireless File Sharing

© Lead Image © alphaspirit, 123RF.com

© Lead Image © alphaspirit, 123RF.com

Article from Issue 291/2025
Author(s):

LocalSend lets you quickly and conveniently exchange data between devices on the same wireless network without the need for cables.

Unlike the operating-system-specific AirDrop, LocalSend is open source, multiplatform file sharing tool [1][2]. Developed using the Flutter framework, LocalSend offers a consistent user interface across various operating systems, including Linux, Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. LocalSend operates on a decentralized peer-to-peer protocol, ensuring that data does not pass through a proprietary server. Privacy is safeguarded with end-to-end encryption, protecting users from unauthorized access. Additionally, no registration or personal information is required. If you are looking for an alternative to Apple's AirDrop, LocalSend offers quick and convenient data transfer capabilities.

Installation and Configuration

LocalSend's installation and configuration are simple and straightforward. The easiest way to download LocalSend is from its download page [3]. On Linux, you can proceed by downloading the binary files or relying on your package manager. If you choose the binary route, you only need to extract the archive, which contains the application and the necessary support files. Available archive formats include TAR, DEB, and AppImage. Once the archive is extracted, simply click on the corresponding icon and launch the LocalSend executable to start the graphical interface. If you prefer to proceed from the terminal using a TAR archive, simply type the following to decompress it and launch the application:

tar -xf LocalSend-1.15.2-linux-x86-64.tar.gz
localsend_app

[...]

Use Express-Checkout link below to read the full article (PDF).

Buy this article as PDF

Express-Checkout as PDF
Price $2.95
(incl. VAT)

Buy Linux Magazine

SINGLE ISSUES
 
SUBSCRIPTIONS
 
TABLET & SMARTPHONE APPS
Get it on Google Play

US / Canada

Get it on Google Play

UK / Australia

Related content

comments powered by Disqus
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters

Support Our Work

Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.

Learn More

News