# LocalSend: Free Open Source Alternative to Apple AirDrop, Send Anywhere

Canonical: https://caniforkit.com/fork/localsend
Last updated: 2026-11-07

LocalSend (Open Source, Open Source) replaces Apple AirDrop, Send Anywhere. Free, open-source file sharing tool for nearby devices. Cross-platform support with end-to-end encryption, no registration required, automatic device discovery.

## Tool Specifications
- **Tool Name**: LocalSend
- **Type**: Open Source Project
- **License**: Open Source
- **Official Website**: https://localsend.org/
- **GitHub Repository**: https://github.com/localsend/localsend
- **GitHub Stars**: ★ 97.7k
- **Runs On**: Local
- **Maintenance Status**: nov 2026
- **Platforms**: desktop, cross-platform, one-click install
- **Data Storage**: All application data lives locally on your own machine.
- **Installation**: Clone https://github.com/localsend/localsend or deploy with Docker Compose
- **Setup Requirements**: Download the native package or installer for your operating system.
- **The Catch / Limitation**: Community-driven open source project without dedicated enterprise SLAs.

## Paid SaaS Applications Replaced (2)
Replacing these paid tools with LocalSend saves up to $50/mo ($600/yr) in software subscriptions:

| Replaced Software | Category | SaaS Price | Comparison Guide |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [Apple AirDrop](https://caniforkit.com/apple-airdrop) | [cloud storage](https://caniforkit.com/category/cloud-storage) | $25/mo | [Compare Apple AirDrop vs LocalSend](https://caniforkit.com/vs/apple-airdrop-vs-localsend) |
| [Send Anywhere](https://caniforkit.com/send-anywhere) | [cloud storage](https://caniforkit.com/category/cloud-storage) | $25/mo | [Compare Send Anywhere vs LocalSend](https://caniforkit.com/vs/send-anywhere-vs-localsend) |

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Is LocalSend free and open source?
LocalSend is an open source tool licensed under Open Source that runs on local. Free, open-source file sharing tool for nearby devices. Cross-platform support with end-to-end encryption, no registration required, automatic device discovery.

### What is the trade-off or limitation of using LocalSend?
Community-driven open source project without dedicated enterprise SLAs.

## Related

- [Self-Hosted Open Source Directory](https://caniforkit.com/self-hosted)
- [All Paid SaaS Alternatives Index](https://caniforkit.com/alternatives)
- [Software Categories Directory](https://caniforkit.com/categories)
- [Homepage](https://caniforkit.com)