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How to Share Large Files: Alternatives to Email Attachments

Last updated on Aug 08, 2025

How to Share Large Files: Alternatives to Email Attachments

Description

Email is a convenient way to share documents, but it has file size limits that often make sending large files (over 50MB) impractical. This guide explains reliable alternatives for sharing large files, focusing on methods available to Brixly shared hosting customers. You’ll learn how to use cloud storage, file sharing services, and your hosting tools—plus best practices and troubleshooting tips.

Why Not Use Email for Large Files?

  • Brixly’s maximum email attachment size is 50MB (including all attachments and message content).
  • Many recipients’ mail servers may have even lower limits (often 20MB).
  • Large attachments can be slow to send, might not arrive, or could be blocked.

Best practice: Use dedicated file sharing methods for files larger than 20–50MB.

Recommended Alternatives

1. Cloud Storage Services

Cloud storage is ideal for sharing large files. Upload your file, then share a download link.

Popular cloud services:

Example: Sharing via Google Drive

  1. Go to Google Drive.
  2. Click New > File upload and select your file.
  3. Once uploaded, right-click the file and choose Get link.
  4. Set permissions (e.g., Anyone with the link can view).
  5. Copy the link and send it via email or chat.

2. Using Brixly Hosting Tools

If you want to share a file directly from your hosting space:

A. Upload with cPanel File Manager

  1. Log in to cPanel.
  2. Open File Manager.
  3. Navigate to public_html or a subfolder (e.g., public_html/files/).
  4. Click Upload and select your file.
  5. Once uploaded, you can share the file link:

    • If you uploaded myfile.zip to public_html/files/, the link would be:

      https://yourdomain.com/files/myfile.zip
  6. Tip: For privacy, upload to a folder with an obscure name or set password protection (see below).

B. Using FTP

For very large files, use FTP to upload files to your hosting account, then share the direct download link as above.

  • Connect via FTP using FileZilla or another client.
  • Upload to public_html or a subfolder.

Password-Protecting a Folder

To restrict access:

  1. In cPanel, go to Directory Privacy.
  2. Select your folder (e.g., public_html/files/).
  3. Enable password protection and set credentials.
  4. Share the download link and credentials with your recipient.

3. Third-Party File Transfer Services

WeTransfer and similar services let you upload large files and send a temporary download link:

  1. Go to WeTransfer.
  2. Add your file(s).
  3. Enter the recipient’s email or generate a shareable link.
  4. File is available for download for a limited time.

Best Practices

  • Compress files: Use ZIP or RAR archives to reduce size and group files.

    # Windows: Right-click > Send to > Compressed (zipped) folder
# Mac: Right-click > Compress

  • Check file security: Avoid sharing sensitive data publicly; use password protection when needed.

  • Delete files when finished: Remove large files from your hosting space after sharing to save storage and keep your account secure.

Troubleshooting

File Won’t Upload

  • File Manager Limit: Files larger than 250MB may not upload via cPanel File Manager. Use FTP for bigger files.
  • Quota Exceeded: Ensure your hosting account has enough available storage.
  • Permission Issues: Make sure files are in the correct directory (public_html for public access).

Recipient Can’t Download

  • Link incorrect: Double-check the URL.
  • File removed or renamed: Ensure the file still exists and the name matches.
  • Password protection: Make sure you’ve provided the correct credentials if the folder is protected.

Frequently Asked Questions

**Q: Can I use NextCloud or similar self-hosted solutions?**A: NextCloud is not permitted for data storage on Brixly shared/reseller hosting. Please use the alternatives above.

**Q: What if I need to share files regularly?**A: Consider using a dedicated cloud storage provider for ongoing file sharing needs.

Summary

  • Don’t use email for large files—use cloud storage or file transfer services.
  • cPanel File Manager or FTP can be used for direct file sharing from your hosting space.
  • Always secure sensitive files and delete them after sharing.
  • For persistent issues, contact Brixly Support for further assistance.

If you have any questions or need help with file sharing, please raise a support ticket. We’re here to help!