Sharing local files without the cloud involves methods that transmit data directly between devices over a network like a local Wi-Fi or the public internet. Unlike cloud services, which upload files to a remote server for recipients to download, this approach keeps files solely on the sender's device or the local network during transfer. Common techniques include generating temporary share links pointing directly to your computer (using built-in OS features), leveraging peer-to-peer (P2P) protocols that connect devices directly without intermediaries, or using a Local Area Network (LAN) folder visible only to connected computers nearby.

For instance, Windows allows right-clicking a file, selecting "Give access to" > "Specific people" to generate a local network sharing link. Similarly, macOS users can enable File Sharing in System Settings, right-click a file, and choose "Share File" to get a local network access link. Dedicated apps like FileDrop, Feem, or Snapdrop utilize P2P protocols over Wi-Fi for direct device-to-device drag-and-drop sharing. These methods are practical for quickly exchanging documents, photos, or presentations within an office, classroom, or among collaborators without an internet connection required beyond the local network.

Advantages include enhanced privacy and security since files never reside on a third-party server, eliminating cloud storage costs and avoiding potential data breaches. However, limitations exist: both sender and recipient usually need to be online simultaneously, transfer speeds depend heavily on network quality and device proximity (for LAN), and the sender's computer must often remain accessible until the transfer completes. While convenient for legitimate collaboration, ensure copyrighted or sensitive data is only shared legally and securely, as direct transfers offer less audit trail than enterprise cloud services.