Move files between iPhone and Windows, nearby or remotely

Features and limits

Decide where the files should travel

LocalSend supports iOS and Windows and transfers over a local network without an account or an internet connection. That does not connect arbitrary networks: the devices still need to reach each other locally.

iCloud Drive needs an Apple Account and an internet connection. Files uploaded on iCloud.com can be downloaded in a computer browser. Decide whether cloud storage is appropriate for these files before choosing this route.

References: LocalSend: features and FAQ / Apple: upload and download files on iCloud.com

Suggested workflow

Nearby: complete one LocalSend test transfer

This is our suggested sequence. A harmless test image makes it easier to resolve device discovery and destination-folder questions before sending hundreds of photos.

1. Install the official apps on iPhone and Windows. Get the desktop installer from LocalSend's download page and connect both devices to a local network that permits communication between them.
2. Allow local-network access on iPhone. Open both apps and note the receiving device's displayed name.
3. Select the test file on the sender, choose the intended receiver and confirm the incoming transfer on the receiving device.
4. Open the received file and find its saved location before sending the batch. Afterwards, check the count and open a few larger files.

References: LocalSend downloads / LocalSend: features and FAQ / LocalSend official repository and troubleshooting

Features and limits

Missing device? Check the network boundary

The same Wi-Fi name does not guarantee that devices can communicate. LocalSend's troubleshooting covers AP isolation, Windows public versus private network settings, local-network permission and VPN access to the LAN.

Check those settings, then try another trusted network. Avoid leaving the firewall disabled for transfers. Follow the administrator's rules on workplace and public networks.

References: LocalSend official repository and troubleshooting

Suggested workflow

At a distance: check iCloud sharing permissions

For your own computer, signing in at iCloud.com and downloading may be enough. Sharing with another person needs a separate permission decision. Apple's controls distinguish invited people from anyone with the link, and viewing from editing.

1. Upload a non-sensitive test file, then locate and download it in the Windows browser.
2. If sharing, check who may access the item and what they may do before sending its link. Consider view access when the recipient only needs a copy.
3. Ask the recipient to confirm that the file opens. Afterwards, review whether the link and cloud copy still need to remain available.

References: Apple: upload and download files on iCloud.com / Apple: share files and folders in iCloud Drive