Overview:
PairDrop is an open-source web application for local file sharing that works across all platforms with a modern web browser. Inspired by Apple's AirDrop and forked from Snapdrop, it enables peer-to-peer transfers of images, documents, or text between devices on the same local network. It also supports transfers over the Internet via temporary public rooms or persistent device pairing. This tool is suitable for users who need a cross-platform, browser-based solution for sending files between phones, laptops, and Linux systems without requiring native apps or cloud uploads.
Core Features:
Local network peer-to-peer transfers: Send images, documents, or text directly between devices on the same local network using a WebRTC connection.
Internet transfers via public rooms: Join temporary public rooms using a 5-letter code or QR code to connect to devices outside the local network, including those behind NAT, public Wi-Fi, VPNs, or iCloud Private Relay.
Persistent device pairing: Pair devices using a 6-digit code or QR code, with pairing persisting across browser sessions via shared secrets, allowing devices to find each other independently of the local network.
File transfer with request acceptance: Files are only transferred after the recipient accepts the request; multiple files are downloaded as a ZIP file.
Send from share menu, context menu, or CLI: Supports sending files directly from the share menu on Android and iOS, the context menu on Ubuntu (Nautilus) and Windows, and via command-line interface.
Custom STUN/TURN server support: When self-hosting, you can configure your own STUN and TURN servers for connectivity in complex network environments.
Use Cases:
Share photos in original quality between Android and iOS devices without cloud storage.
Transfer private files peer-to-peer between Linux systems over a local network.
Send files from a phone to a laptop when both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.
Connect devices in complex network environments (e.g., company network, public Wi-Fi, mobile hotspot) via temporary public rooms or persistent pairing.
Why It Matters:
PairDrop provides a browser-based, client-side approach to file sharing that works across platforms without requiring native apps or third-party cloud services. By supporting both local network transfers and Internet-based connections via public rooms or device pairing, it addresses common file-sharing challenges in restricted network environments. Self-hosting is available via Docker or Node.js, and users can set their own STUN/TURN servers. As a fork of Snapdrop with added Internet transfer capabilities, it offers a practical alternative for those seeking direct peer-to-peer file sharing.
