How to transfer files between computers: analysis of popular methods and tools across the Internet
With the popularity of remote working and cross-device collaboration, the need to transfer files between computers is growing. This article will combine the hot technical topics and user discussions in the past 10 days to sort out efficient and secure file transfer solutions for you, and provide structured data comparison.
1. Current ranking of popular file transfer methods

| Ranking | Transmission method | heat index | Applicable scenarios |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | LAN sharing | 92% | Office/Home Network |
| 2 | Cloud storage synchronization | 88% | Cross-regional collaboration |
| 3 | U disk/mobile hard disk | 85% | Offline large file transfer |
| 4 | instant messaging tool | 78% | Quick sharing of small files |
| 5 | FTP server | 65% | Enterprise-level document management |
2. Specific operation guide
1. LAN sharing (Windows system)
Step 1: Right-click the target folder → select "Properties" → switch to the "Sharing" tab → click "Advanced Sharing" → check "Share this folder"
Step 2: Enter in the "File Explorer" address bar of another computer:\Target computer IP shared folder name
2. Comparison of cloud storage tools
| Tool name | free capacity | Maximum single file | Transmission speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baidu Skydisk | 2TB | 20GB | dependent members |
| Alibaba cloud disk | 1TB | 30GB | No speed limit |
| OneDrive | 5GB | 100GB | stable |
| nut cloud | 1GB/month | Unlimited | Professional grade |
3. Emerging transmission technologies in 2023
1.Snapdrop: P2P transmission tool based on WebRTC, no need to install software, just open the web page to transfer files to each other (supports cross-platform)
2.LocalSend: Open source alternative to AirDrop solution, supporting Windows/macOS/Linux/Android/iOS five-terminal interoperability
3.Tailscale: A networking tool based on WireGuard that can establish a virtual LAN for remote file sharing
4. Suggestions for safe transmission
| Risk type | protective measures | Recommended tools |
|---|---|---|
| data breach | Enable transport encryption | SFTP/WebDAV |
| viral spread | Scan files before transferring | Tinder/Windows Defender |
| Out of control permissions | Set access password | 7-Zip encryption compression |
5. Recommendations for the best solutions in different scenarios
•Fast transfer in the same room: LAN sharing or direct connection via data cable (speed up to 100MB/s)
•Cross-regional collaboration: Alibaba Cloud Disk + Online Documentation (supports real-time synchronization)
•Sensitive data transfer: Veracrypt creates encrypted container + physical media delivery
•Very large files: FastCopy tool + mobile hard disk (to avoid network instability)
According to actual test data, the speed comparison of different transmission methods is as follows:
| Transmission method | 1GB file takes time | Stability |
|---|---|---|
| Gigabit LAN | 8-15 seconds | ★★★★★ |
| USB3.0 U disk | 20-40 seconds | ★★★★ |
| 5G hotspot transmission | 2-5 minutes | ★★★ |
| Ordinary broadband cloud synchronization | 5-15 minutes | ★★ |
It is recommended that users choose the most suitable solution based on file size, urgency and device environment. For daily use, it is recommended to master at least 2-3 different transmission methods in case of emergency. With the popularization of Wi-Fi 6 and 5G technology, wireless transmission speed will be significantly improved in the future.
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