PairDrop

PairDrop is an open-source web app and server that enables file sharing between devices. It functions as a web application that allows users to send images, documents, and text without requiring registration, software installation, or manual configuration. The service is designed to facilitate quick transfers between different hardware platforms without the need for a centralized account system.

The software is deployed as a server using Node.js or Docker and is accessed via a modern web browser. It supports cross-platform transfers between Android, iOS, Linux, and other operating systems, utilizing peer-to-peer technology to move data between devices on the same local network or over the internet. This makes it a versatile tool for users who need to move files between a phone and a laptop or share high-quality photos across different mobile ecosystems.

Key features

• Peer-to-peer transfers of images, documents, and text on local networks
• Persistent device pairing via 6-digit codes or QR codes
• Temporary public rooms for internet transfers using 5-letter codes
• Automatic NAT traversal via TURN servers for complex network environments
• Support for multiple simultaneous file transfers with a progress indicator
• Automatic ZIP archiving for multiple downloaded files
• Video and audio previews for transferred media
• Custom display names for device identification
• Self-hosting options with configurable STUN and TURN servers

The application is a fork of Snapdrop and is built with a Node.js backend and a vanilla HTML5, JS, and CSS frontend. It leverages WebRTC and WebSockets for connectivity and IndexedDB for storage handling. The architecture allows it to function as a Progressive Web App (PWA), making it accessible across various hardware configurations including Raspberry Pi for local network hosting. It includes specific integrations for mobile devices, such as the ability to save files directly to the gallery on Android and iOS via the system share menu.

PairDrop serves as a privacy-focused utility for users who need to move files between different operating systems without relying on cloud uploads or proprietary ecosystem locks.