If you need to transfer big file, you’re going to want to use the right file transfer service. Not all services are created equal, and some will be better suited for transferring large files, allowing for hundreds of gigabytes worth of file transfers. In this blog post, we will teach you how to compress your files so that they take up less space and how to upload them using the right service, among other helpful tips.
- Choose the right file transfer service
There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a file transfer service.
The most important is probably the file size limit. Most services have a file size limit, so you’ll want to make sure that the service you choose can handle files of the size that you need to transfer. Another thing to consider is the speed of the transfer. If you’re transferring large files, you’ll want a service that can handle the transfer quickly.
Finally, you’ll also want to consider the security of the transfer. Some services offer end-to-end encryption, which means your files will be encrypted while in transit and can only be decrypted by the intended recipient. This is important if you’re transferring sensitive files.
There are a few different file transfer services that we recommend, but our top pick is WeTransfer. WeTransfer doesn’t have a file size limit, meaning you can transfer files of any size. Plus, it’s quick and easy to use and offers end-to-end encryption for extra security. Read more about How to Transfer WhatsApp messages from Android to iOS.
- Compress your files
Before you upload your files, you’re going to want to compress them. This will make the files take up less space, which means that the transfer will be faster. You can use a file compression program like WinRAR or Zip to compress your files.
Once you’ve compressed the files, make sure to check that they still work correctly. You can do this by opening the compressed file and making sure that all of the files inside are accessible.
- Upload your files
Now that you’ve chosen a file transfer service and compressed your files, it’s time to upload them. To do this, you’ll need to log in to the file transfer service and find the “upload” button. Once you’ve found the upload button, click it and select the files that you want to transfer. The file transfer service will then start uploading your files.
Depending on the size of your files and the speed of your internet connection, this process could take a while. So, it’s best to start the transfer and then go do something else while it completes. Once the transfer is complete, you’ll receive a notification from the file transfer service.
- Download the files to your computer
Once the files have been transferred, you can download them to your computer. To do this, log in to the file transfer service and find the “download” button. Once you’ve found the download button, click it and select the files that you want to transfer. The file transfer service will then start downloading your files.
- Verify that the files transferred correctly
Once you’ve downloaded the files to your computer, it’s a good idea to check that they transferred correctly. To do this, you can compare the file size and MD (message digest) of the original file with the file you just downloaded. If they match, then you know that the file transferred correctly.
That’s it! You now know how to transfer large files using a file transfer service – good luck!
A Correction: WeTransfer Does Have a Limit
This guide says WeTransfer has no file size limit. That is not correct. WeTransfer’s free plan allows transfers of up to 2 GB per transfer. Paid plans allow larger transfers. WeTransfer also does not offer end-to-end encryption on its free service. It encrypts files while they travel and while they are stored. But end-to-end encryption, where only the sender and receiver can read the file, is not a WeTransfer feature. For sensitive files, use a service that offers end-to-end encryption. Always check the current limits on the service’s own site before you send a large file. Limits change over time.
Other Ways to Send Large Files
Cloud storage is the most common way to send large files. Google Drive gives 15 GB of free storage. That storage is shared across Google Drive, Gmail, and Google Photos. Dropbox gives 2 GB of free storage. OneDrive gives 5 GB of free storage. Upload the file to the cloud. Then share a link with the other person. They can download it from the link. A USB drive or an external hard drive works too. Copy the file to the drive. Hand the drive to the other person or post it to them. This suits very large files, like video projects. For work, FTP or SFTP is common. FTP moves files between computers over the internet. SFTP is the secure version. It encrypts the transfer. Your IT team can set it up for you.
Email Has a Small Limit
Email is not made for large files. Gmail allows attachments of up to 25 MB. Larger files are sent as a Google Drive link instead. Outlook has a similar limit of about 20 to 25 MB. If your file is bigger than that, email will not send it. Use a file transfer service or cloud storage instead. Do not split a video into many small emails. That is slow and easy to lose track of.
How to Speed Up a Large Upload
Large uploads take time. A wired connection is faster than Wi-Fi. Plug your computer into the router with a cable if you can. Close other apps that use the internet. Video calls and streaming slow your upload down. Upload at off-peak hours. Late at night or early in the morning is often faster. Split a very large file into parts if the service allows it. This makes it easier to resume if the upload fails. Keep your computer awake during the upload. If it goes to sleep, the upload may stop. Check that the upload finished before you close the tab.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does WeTransfer have a file size limit?
Yes. WeTransfer’s free plan allows transfers of up to 2 GB per transfer. Paid plans allow larger transfers. Check the current limits on WeTransfer’s own site.
Can I send a large file by email?
No. Gmail allows attachments of up to 25 MB. Outlook has a similar limit. For larger files, use a file transfer service or cloud storage.
What is the best way to send a very large file?
Cloud storage like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive works well. Upload the file and share a link. For very large files, a USB drive or an external hard drive also works.
How can I speed up a large upload?
Use a wired connection instead of Wi-Fi. Close apps that use the internet. Upload at off-peak hours. Keep your computer awake during the upload.
How do I know a file transferred correctly?
Compare the file size and the MD5 checksum of the original file with the downloaded file. If they match, the transfer worked.
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only. File size limits and storage plans change. Check the service’s own site for current limits and prices.
Last Updated: 6 November 2026