Top 6 Free Network File Transfer Software 2024

How do I transfer files between computers on my network?

In the current era of information, the significance of sharing data is continually on the rise. Thankfully, modern advancements have blessed us with file-sharing applications, enabling swift data transfers between systems. Network file transfer software has become an indispensable tool in our professional routines, whether we're collaborating remotely, working within a team, or simply sharing files with a nearby colleague on the fly.

With an array of options available, determining the optimal network file transfer software can be a challenge. So, what criteria should guide your selection? Consider the following key attributes:

• Cost-effectiveness: Opt for a solution that is free of charge.
• User-friendly interface: Select software that is intuitive and easy to navigate.
• Speedy transfers: Prioritize applications with rapid transfer speeds to enhance efficiency.
• Generous file size limits: Look for software that accommodates larger file sizes, facilitating comprehensive data exchange.
• Enhanced security measures: Ensure the software provides robust security features to safeguard your data during transit.

Best 6 network file transfer software

Here we’ll introduce the top six free network file transfer software. Choose the one you like best.

Option 1. Remotely transfer files between computers via AnyViewer

AnyViewer stands out as the simplest and quickest network file sharing software available. It proves especially convenient for transferring files between computers, particularly when they're remote or not on the same network.

Here's why it has become one of the most favored remote file transfer tools:

★Benefits:

Wide compatibility. It works with several Windows versions, including the newest Windows 11.

Unattended remote transfer. You are allowed to share files with an unattended computer with one click.

Fast speed. It transfers files at a really fast speed, even if transferring large files over the Internet. But if the two laptops are on LAN or WiFi, the transfer speed will be faster.  

Improved security. The file transfer process is secured by Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) encryption, protecting your data from leakage.

Multiple features. As a remote desktop tool as well, it also allows you to completely control and manage another computer remotely. Besides, it is also a screen share tool.

Step 1. Download, install, and launch AnyViewer on both Windows computers. 

Step 2. On the remote computer, go to Log in, and then click Sign up (if you already have signed up on its official website, you can log in directly).

Step 3. Fill in the signup information and you can see you successfully logged in to AnyViewer. Your device will automatically be assigned to the account you’ve logged in to.

Step 4. Log in to the same account on the local computer. Choose your target remote computer from the device list, and then click File Transfer.

Step 5. Then a File Transfer dialog box will appear. You’re able to transfer files between devices freely by clicking the arrows after choosing the target files. You can also double-click the target file to achieve transfer.

Notes:✎...

To transfer files freely, it is highly recommended to upgrade your account to a professional or enterprise plan. Here are what a professional or enterprise plan can bring to you:

Achieve a maximum file transfer speed of 10 MB/s.

Utilize 5 threads for simultaneous file transfer.

No limit on the maximum number of files transferred at once.

Support for transferring files of up to 1 TB in size individually.

Increase the number of devices assigned for unattended file transfer.

Option 2. Share files between computers via Nearby Sharing

Another way is to use Nearby Sharing, the free LAN file sharing software. You should be informed before you begin that this method only works with Windows 10 and Windows 11 and that both devices need to be linked to the same network.

Step 1. Navigate to: Settings > System > Shared Experiences, and then turn on the Nearby sharing button.

Step 2. Select the sharing pattern based on your own need from the drop-down menu.

Step 3. You can click Change to choose the folder location where you prefer to store the files being transferred to your PC.

Step 4. Go to the file explorer, right-click the desired file you want to transfer, and then select Share in the context menu.

Step 5. Select the target device you want to transfer files to from the pop-up window.

Step 6. Then the target device will receive a notification. Click Save & Open to start the file transfer.

Option 3. Sync files from computer to computer via AOMEI Backupper

The best free file sync software for Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/Vista/XP, AOMEI Backupper Standard, can assist you with fast file transfer between computers over a network. It includes file sync, which allows users to transfer files to external/internal hard drives, cloud drives, NAS devices, and networks, among other things. And, best of all, it's completely free!

Step 1. Install and launch AOMEI Backupper Standard on the source computer. Click Sync, and then click Basic Sync.

Step 2. Add folders you want to transfer by clicking Add Folder.

Step 3. Choose the destination location. Here you can select Add Share or NAS Devices.

Step 4. In the Add Share or NAS Devices window, type the IP address of the source computer and click the blue button at the right. Type username and password if it prompts.

Step 5. After the IP address has been added, all network-shared folders on the computer will be listed. Choose one folder to store the folder(s) you plan to transfer and click OK.

Step 6. Then click Start Sync.

Step 7. Go to This PC > Network on the destination computer to access the synced files wirelessly.

Option 4. Computer-to-computer file transfer via cloud storage services

You are also able to share files from computer to computer using cloud storage services, for example, Google Drive and OneDrive. Here we'll take Google Drive as an example.Google Drive can provide you with 15GB of free online storage space as long as you have a Google account, and you can easily share any content you want, whether it's a single file or an entire folder.

Step 1. Open the main interface of Google Drive, find and click My Drive in the left sidebar, click My Drive again, and select Upload files or Upload folder in the expanded menu.

Step 2. For example, click Upload files, and a window will pop up automatically. Select the files you want to upload and click Open in the lower-right corner.

Step 3. You can see the file upload progress in the lower right corner. After the upload is completed, you can find the file in the main interface.

Step 4. Open Google Drive on the other computer and log in to the same Google account. Find the file you’ve transferred, right-click the file, and select Download in the expanded menu to realize remote file transfer between different computers.

Option 5. Professional file transfer protocol via FileZilla

File Transfer Protocol (FTP), a longstanding method for file exchange, operates on the TCP/IP protocol, specializing in handling large files between servers and clients. Accessible through an FTP client, this protocol simplifies data transfer tasks.

A range of free FTP clients, like FileZilla, are readily accessible online. However, it's crucial to acknowledge FTP's security limitations. Notably, user credentials are transmitted without encryption, potentially exposing them to interception. Thus, FTP is best suited for non-sensitive data transfers to minimize security vulnerabilities.

Step 1. Download and install FileZilla, an FTP client supporting FTPS with TLS encryption, from filezilla-project.org.

Step 2. Launch FileZilla; it'll look like the screenshot provided.

Step 3. Make sure FTP is set up in Asset Bank. Click "Upload" to see the options.

Step 4. Click "Show help for using an FTP client" to find the details needed to connect.

Step 5. Enter the details in FileZilla and hit "Quickconnect."

Step 6. Once connected, navigate to your folder in "Local Site" (left) and your user's directory in "Remote Site" (right). Upload your file by double-clicking or right-clicking.

Step 7. Go back to Asset Bank, click "Next," and add metadata. If you have folders, mirror them in the FTP server's upload directory.

Step 8. After the Asset Bank upload, choose a directory for importing assets, following the provided screenshot prompts.

Option 6. Send files between computers using email

Sending files via email is a common and convenient way to share information between computers, for example, Gmail. Provided by Google, Gmail is one of the most widely used email services worldwide.

Remember, while email is convenient for sending small to moderately-sized files, it may not be suitable for very large files due to attachment size limitations and potential issues with recipient email servers. For larger files, consider using a file-sharing service or cloud storage platform.

Step 1. Open the Gmail official site on one computer, and create and sign in to your email account. On the main page, click Compose.

Step 2. Then type in the email addresses that have been logged in to another computer behind To. Click the attachment icon below to choose the picture files you want to transfer. Click Send to start sending picture files to the other computer.

Step 3. On the other computer, open and sign in to your email application to check and download the picture files.

Closing words

In an age where data sharing is paramount, the quest for efficient network file transfer software drives our digital landscape. Various options, each catering to distinct needs, vie for attention.

Amidst the myriad options for file transfer, AnyViewer emerges as a beacon of efficiency and security. Whether sharing files across the room or across the globe, AnyViewer empowers us to connect effortlessly, ensuring our data remains secure and accessible, fueling productivity in our professional endeavors.