Need to send a file that\'s too large for email? SwissTransfer is Infomaniak\'s free solution for transferring up to 50 GB of data, with no registration required, and your files hosted in Switzerland. Here\'s the complete guide to mastering this essential tool.
What Is SwissTransfer?
SwissTransfer is a large file transfer service created by Infomaniak. Completely free and ad-free, it lets you send files up to 50 GB to anyone, without creating an account.
SwissTransfer\'s Advantages
- 100% free – No mandatory premium version, no advertising
- Up to 50 GB – Far more than WeTransfer\'s free 2 GB limit
- No registration – Send immediately without creating an account
- Swiss hosting – Your data stays in Switzerland, outside US jurisdiction
- Encryption – Password protection available
- Open source – Source code available on GitHub
Why Is It Free?
Infomaniak funds SwissTransfer through its other paid services (hosting, kSuite). It\'s their way of democratizing access to a privacy-respecting tool while promoting their professional solutions.
How to Send Files with SwissTransfer
Step 1: Access the Service
Go to swisstransfer.com
Step 2: Add Your Files
- Click the drop zone or drag and drop your files
- You can add multiple files or entire folders
- The total limit is 50 GB per transfer
Step 3: Configure the Transfer
Before sending, customize the options:
| Option | Description | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Validity period | 1 to 30 days | 7 days for regular use |
| Number of downloads | 1 to 250 downloads | Limit based on number of recipients |
| Password | Optional protection | Enable for sensitive files |
| Email notification | Be notified of downloads | Useful for tracking reception |
Step 4: Choose the Sending Method
SwissTransfer offers two modes:
"Link" Mode
- Generates a download link
- Share this link however you want (email, SMS, messaging...)
- Ideal for sharing across multiple channels
"Email" Mode
- Enter the recipient\'s email directly
- SwissTransfer sends the email with the link
- You can add a custom message
Step 5: Send
Click "Transfer" and wait during the upload. Once complete, you\'ll get the download link.
Speed Tip
The upload is faster if you compress your files into a .zip before sending. This also reduces the number of files for the recipient to manage.
Receiving Files with SwissTransfer
SwissTransfer also lets you create an upload link to receive files from your clients or collaborators.
Creating an Upload Link
- Log in with your Infomaniak account (free)
- Go to the "Receive" tab
- Configure your upload link:
- Custom welcome message
- Size limit
- Link validity period
- Share this link with people who need to send you files
Upload Link Use Cases
- Photographers – Receive client photos for retouching
- Accountants – Collect expense receipts
- Agencies – Receive client assets
- Recruiters – Collect applications with CV/portfolio
SwissTransfer vs WeTransfer: The Comparison
| Criteria | SwissTransfer | WeTransfer (free) |
|---|---|---|
| Max size | 50 GB | 2 GB |
| Price | Free | Free (Pro: €12/month) |
| Ads | None | Yes |
| Password | Free | Pro version only |
| Data hosting | Switzerland | United States/EU |
| GDPR | Compliant | Compliant |
| Validity period | Up to 30 days | 7 days |
| Download limit | Up to 250 | Unlimited |
| Open source | Yes | No |
Verdict: SwissTransfer outperforms free WeTransfer on all important criteria. The only limitation is the number of downloads (250 max), which is more than enough for most uses.
Advanced Features
Password Protection
For sensitive files, enable password protection:
- Check "Password protect" before sending
- Set a strong password
- Communicate the password to the recipient via a different channel (SMS, phone)
Security
Never send the password in the same email as the download link. Use a separate channel (SMS, call, instant messaging).
Download Notifications
Enable notifications to know when your files are downloaded:
- Enter your email in the "Your email" field
- You\'ll receive an email for each download
- Useful for confirming receipt
Customization (with Account)
By creating a free Infomaniak account, you unlock:
- Transfer history
- Custom upload links
- Manage ongoing transfers
- Early file deletion
Integration with kDrive
If you use kDrive (Infomaniak\'s cloud storage), you can share files directly from kDrive with the same options as SwissTransfer:
- Right-click a file in kDrive
- Select "Share"
- Choose "Public link" with expiration
- Configure options (password, duration, downloads)
The advantage: your files stay in your kDrive and are not duplicated.
Professional Use Cases
For Creatives
- Videographers – Send rushes or final exports (4K, ProRes)
- Graphic designers – Share source files (PSD, AI, INDD)
- Musicians – Deliver audio masters (WAV, FLAC)
For Businesses
- Human resources – Receive complete application packages
- Legal – Exchange confidential documents
- Marketing – Share campaign assets
For Everyday Use
- Family photos – Share vacation photos in high quality
- Digital moving – Transfer personal archives
- Temporary backup – Store files during a computer change
Security and Privacy
Where Is the Data Stored?
All files are hosted in Infomaniak\'s data centers in Switzerland. This means:
- Outside US jurisdiction – Not subject to the American Cloud Act
- Swiss law – Among the strictest data protection in the world
- Renewable energy – Data centers powered 100% by green energy
Encryption
- HTTPS transfer (encryption in transit)
- Password option for additional encryption
- Automatic deletion after expiration
No Tracking
Unlike WeTransfer, SwissTransfer does not:
- Analyze the content of your files
- Resell your data
- Display targeted advertising
Limitations to Know
SwissTransfer has a few limitations to keep in mind:
- 250 downloads max – Beyond this, the link expires
- 30 days max – Files are deleted after
- No permanent storage – It\'s not a cloud service; use kDrive for that
- No public API – Limited integration in automated workflows
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SwissTransfer really free?
Yes, 100% free, ad-free, with no mandatory premium version. Infomaniak funds this service through its other paid products.
Are my files secure?
Yes. Files are hosted in Switzerland, transferred via HTTPS, and you can add a password. They are automatically deleted after expiration.
Can I use SwissTransfer for my business?
Yes, SwissTransfer is perfectly suited for professional use. For advanced needs (permanent storage, collaboration), consider kDrive.
How do I delete a transfer before expiration?
Log in with your Infomaniak account, access your transfer history, and delete the one you want.
Is there a mobile app?
SwissTransfer works perfectly on mobile via the browser. There\'s no dedicated app, but the web interface is responsive.
Conclusion
SwissTransfer is the ideal solution for sending large files without compromising on privacy. Free, ad-free, with 50 GB capacity and Swiss hosting, it outperforms WeTransfer on all essential points.
For occasional use, SwissTransfer is more than enough. For permanent storage and advanced collaboration, complement it with kDrive.
Key Takeaways
- 50 GB free, no registration
- Swiss hosting, privacy-respecting
- Password protection included
- Ethical alternative to WeTransfer
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