How to Send Large Files Through Email: A Detailed Guide
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you need to send a large file through email, but the file size exceeds the email service’s limit? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Many people face this issue, and there are several ways to overcome it. In this article, I will guide you through various methods to send large files through email, ensuring that your files reach their intended recipients without any hassle.
Understanding Email File Size Limits
Email services have a file size limit to prevent servers from being overwhelmed with large attachments. For instance, Gmail has a limit of 25 MB for attachments, while Outlook allows up to 20 MB. If your file exceeds these limits, you’ll need to find an alternative method to send it.
Email Service | File Size Limit |
---|---|
Gmail | 25 MB |
Outlook | 20 MB |
Yahoo Mail | 25 MB |
ProtonMail | 500 MB |
Using Cloud Storage Services
One of the most popular methods to send large files through email is by using cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive. These services offer free storage space and allow you to share files with others by sending them a link to the file.
- Upload your large file to a cloud storage service.
- Generate a shareable link for the file.
- Copy the link and paste it into your email.
- Send the email to the recipient.
Here’s a brief overview of how to share files using Google Drive:
- Log in to your Google Drive account.
- Right-click on the file you want to share and select “Get shareable link.”
- Select the desired permissions (view, edit, comment) and click “Copy link.”
- Paste the link into your email and send it to the recipient.
Using Email Attachments Converter
Another method to send large files through email is by using an email attachments converter. These tools compress your file, reducing its size and allowing you to send it as an email attachment.
- Search for an email attachments converter online.
- Upload your large file to the converter.
- Select the desired compression settings.
- Download the compressed file.
- Attach the compressed file to your email and send it to the recipient.
Some popular email attachments converters include:
- Smallpdf
- ILovePDF
- Adobe Acrobat online
Using File Transfer Services
File transfer services like WeTransfer, Send Anywhere, and YouSendIt are designed specifically for sending large files. These services allow you to upload your file, and then they generate a link that you can share with others.
- Visit the file transfer service’s website.
- Upload your large file.
- Enter the recipient’s email address.
- Send the email notification to the recipient.
- The recipient will receive an email with a link to download the file.
Here’s a brief overview of how to use WeTransfer:
- Go to wetransfer.com.
- Click on “Choose files” and select your large file.
- Enter the recipient’s email address.
- Click “Transfer.”
- The recipient will receive an email with a link to download the file.
Using Email Clients with Large File Support
Some email clients offer built-in support for sending large files. For example, Thunderbird allows