6 Ways to Send Large Files via E-mail

Are you frequently faced with the challenge of sending large files through email? It can be frustrating when you encounter file size limitations and difficulties when sending videos, images, or any important documents. Fortunately, there are several ways to send large files via email that can save you time and effort. In this article, we will explore different methods and tools that allow you to effortlessly share large files with ease.

Compressing files

• Pros: Reduces file size, maintains content and quality, easy to attach to emails.
• Cons: Some email providers may still have limitations on attachment size.

One of the simplest and most effective ways to send large files via email is by compressing them into a smaller size. Compression reduces the file size without compromising its content or quality. You can use various compression tools like WinRAR or 7-Zip to compress files into formats such as ZIP or RAR. These compressed files can then be easily attached to an email and sent to the recipient. Keep in mind that some email providers have limitations on the total size of attachments, so it’s still important to check the maximum allowable file size.

Cloud storage services

• Pros: Bypasses file size limitations, recipients can conveniently download files, supports collaboration.
• Cons: Requires uploading files to the cloud, relies on a stable internet connection.

If video compression software is no help, another popular method to send large files is by utilizing cloud storage services. These services allow you to upload files to the cloud and share them with others via email. Instead of attaching the large file directly to the email, you can simply include a link to the file stored in the cloud. This not only bypasses file size limitations but also provides the recipient with the ability to download the file at their convenience. Some popular cloud storage services include Dropbox and Google Drive. These services offer both free and paid plans, providing different levels of storage capacity to suit your needs.

File transfer services

• Pros: Specializes in transferring large files securely, offers free and premium plans depending on your needs, user-friendly interface.
• Cons: May have file size limitations for free plans.

If you need to send massive files that exceed the limits imposed by email providers, file transfer services are a great solution. These services specialize in transferring large files securely over the internet. One such service is TransferXL, which allows you to upload files up to 5 GB in size for free and offers premium plans for even larger file sizes. TransferXL provides a simple and intuitive interface, making it easy to upload and share large files with others. Additionally, it offers encryption and password protection for added security.

FTP (File Transfer Protocol)

• Pros: Reliable and efficient for large file transfers, allows direct transfer from the sender’s computer to a remote server.
• Cons: Less user-friendly for non-technical users, requires familiarity with FTP clients.

FTP, or File Transfer Protocol, is a standard network protocol used for transferring files between computers over a network. With FTP, you can send large files directly from your computer to a remote server, and the recipient can access the files by downloading them from the server. While FTP is not as user-friendly as other methods, it is a reliable and efficient way to send large files. There are several FTP clients available, such as FileZilla and Cyberduck, which provide an easy-to-use interface for managing file transfers.

Email clients with large attachment support

• Pros: Built-in support for large attachments, convenient for users already using the email client.
• Cons: The recipient’s email client must also support large attachments, may still have limitations compared to other methods.

Some email clients offer built-in support for sending large attachments. These clients are specifically designed to handle large files, allowing you to bypass the usual file size limitations imposed by other email providers. Mozilla Thunderbird, for example, is a popular email client that supports sending large attachments up to 2 GB in size. Additionally, services like Gmail and Outlook have increased their attachment limits over the years, enabling you to send larger files directly through their platforms. It’s worth noting that the recipient’s email client must also support large attachments for the file to be successfully delivered.

Peer-to-peer file sharing

• Pros: Direct transfer between devices, decentralized network, efficient for large files.
• Cons: Requires both sender and recipient to have the same P2P file sharing application, may not be suitable for all recipients.

Another method for sending large files via email is through peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing. P2P file sharing allows you to directly transfer files between devices without relying on centralized servers or cloud storage. Applications like BitTorrent and Resilio Sync enable you to create a decentralized network where files can be shared securely and efficiently. With P2P file sharing, large files can be divided into smaller pieces, making it easier to transfer them across multiple devices. However, it’s important to note that P2P file sharing may require the recipient to have the same application installed for successful file transfer.

Summary

Sending large files via email doesn’t have to be a cumbersome process. By utilizing compression tools, cloud storage services, file transfer services like TransferXL, FTP, email clients with large attachment support, or even peer-to-peer file sharing, you can easily overcome file size limitations and share your files effortlessly. Choose the method that suits your needs, taking into consideration factors such as file size, convenience, security, and recipient requirements. With these diverse options, you can confidently share large files via email and streamline your file transfer process.