LocalSend only works when both devices are on the same local network - it uses mDNS multicast, which does not cross routers or subnets. If one device is on cellular, on hotel WiFi with AP isolation, or behind a VPN, LocalSend fails. The best LocalSend alternative in 2026 is chirpfile: it works cross-network by skipping local discovery entirely, runs in the browser with no install (LocalSend needs a native app on every device), and the server never sees the decryption key or file contents.
chirpfile vs LocalSend
chirpfileLocalSend
Cross-network (different WiFi)YesNo
Works on hotel/office WiFiYesNo
One device on cellularYesNo
No app installBrowser onlyApp required
Works with VPN onYesUsually breaks
End-to-end encryptedAES-128-GCMTLS
File deleted after transferAuto-deletedSaved to device
Server sees file contentsNever (zero-knowledge)No server (direct)
When LocalSend fails
Different networks
Phone on cellular, laptop on WiFi. Or two different WiFi networks in the same building. LocalSend can't discover across network boundaries. chirpfile doesn't care what network you're on.
Hotel or conference WiFi
Most public networks enable AP isolation, which blocks the mDNS discovery LocalSend relies on. chirpfile routes through an encrypted relay, bypassing network restrictions entirely.
Can't install the app
Work laptops, borrowed devices, public computers. If you can't install software, you can't use LocalSend. chirpfile runs in the browser.
VPN breaks discovery
A VPN changes your network interface. LocalSend often can't find devices when a VPN is active on either device. chirpfile works regardless of VPN status.
Try it now
Open chirpfile.com on two devices and send a file.
LocalSend uses mDNS to discover devices on the same local network. If devices are on different networks, behind a VPN, or on WiFi with AP isolation (hotels, offices), discovery fails. chirpfile doesn't need local discovery at all.
Does LocalSend work without WiFi?
No. Both devices must be on the same local network. chirpfile works across any internet connection - WiFi, cellular, ethernet, or a mix.
Is LocalSend more private because it's direct?
LocalSend transfers directly between devices, which means no server involvement. chirpfile uses a relay, but the server only sees encrypted data. The decryption key travels as sound between devices and never touches the internet. Different approach, same outcome: nobody in the middle can read your files.
When should I use LocalSend instead?
If both devices are on the same WiFi, you have LocalSend installed on both, and you're transferring very large files, LocalSend is faster because it's direct. chirpfile is better when you're on different networks, can't install apps, or need the transfer to leave no trace.