How to share files between devices on the same Wi-Fi
By the WispFile team · Updated 24 September 2026
On the same Wi-Fi, a direct browser transfer usually connects the two devices over your local network, so the file never leaves the building and is not limited by your internet upload speed. It works between any mix of phone, Mac, Windows and Linux, with nothing to install.
Key facts
- AirDrop is Apple-only; Quick Share is Android and Windows.
- A browser works on every device, whatever makes it.
- Local transfers are often much faster than your internet upload.
- Guest and office networks sometimes block devices from seeing each other.
How to do it
- Open wispfile.com on the device with the files and add them.
- Scan the QR code with the other device, or send yourself the link.
- Download on the other device.
If it is slow or will not connect
- Move closer to the router, or use a cable on the computer.
- Guest Wi-Fi and some office networks isolate devices from each other. The transfer can still go over the internet, at internet speed, if the networks allow direct connections.
- A VPN on either device can route traffic away from the local network; pause it.
Frequently asked questions
Does the file go over the internet?
The link is set up over the internet; when both devices can reach each other locally, the file itself usually travels over your local network.
Should I use this instead of AirDrop?
Between two Apple devices, AirDrop is built in and works well. A browser link is for when the devices are not all Apple, or AirDrop will not find the other device.
Do both devices need the app?
There is no app: both just need a browser.
Related guides
- How to transfer files between two computers — Cable, drive, network share, cloud or a direct link: which to pick.
- How to transfer files from iPhone to Android — No AirDrop, no app: iPhone to Android with a browser.
- An alternative to USB drives for large files — Moving big files when there is no stick to hand.
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