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How to transfer files from Android to a computer over Wi-Fi
The cable is never where you need it, and cloud uploads are slow for big files and pointless when the computer is in the same room. A local file server solves both. An app on the Android device shares its storage over your Wi-Fi, and the computer opens it in a browser or as a network drive. Nothing goes through the internet.
A step-by-step method that works with most Android file server apps, then the apps themselves, with a section for file server apps rising by visits on the Censuus ranking.
File server apps rising by visits and sponsorship on Censuus
Younger Android apps from independent developers:
WebDAV FS - File ServerGoogle Playturns an Android device into a WebDAV and FTP file server for the network-drive method above.
HTTP FS - File & WebDAV ServerGoogle Playturns an Android phone, tablet or TV device into a local HTTP or WebDAV file server, with no cables, no app on the receiving side and no internet connection required.
- Your app hereFree, foreverList my app
How it works
A file server app turns the Android device into a small server on your local network. It shows an address, usually a series of numbers and a port. Typing that into a browser on the computer opens a page listing the files, where you can download and upload. Many apps also speak WebDAV or FTP, which lets the computer treat the phone like a network drive.
Browser or network drive
The browser method needs nothing installed on the computer and is fine for a few files. For regular transfers, add the phone as a network location: Windows can map a WebDAV address as a drive, and macOS can connect to it from Finder. Then you drag and drop as with any folder.
Keep it on a network you trust
A file server lets anyone on the same network reach the files it shares. Use it at home or on a network you control, set a password if the app allows, share only the folders you need and turn the server off when you finish.
When a cable or an app is better
For a full phone backup or moving to a new phone, a dedicated transfer tool is often simpler. For everyday files, a Wi-Fi server is quicker than finding a cable. Compare related tools in file manager apps and phone transfer apps.
| Step | What you do | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Same network | phone and computer on the same Wi-Fi | a home network, not public Wi-Fi |
| 2. Start the server | open the file server app and start it | it shows an address to type |
| 3. Open on the computer | type the address into a browser | download or upload files there |
| 4. Or map a drive | add it as a WebDAV or FTP location | drag and drop in your file manager |
| 5. Stop the server | switch it off when you are done | nothing stays exposed |
Frequently asked questions
How do I transfer files from Android to PC without a cable?
Run a file server app on the Android device, connect both to the same Wi-Fi, and open the address it shows in a browser on the computer, or add it as a WebDAV or FTP location.
Is it safe to run a file server on my phone?
On a home network you trust, with a password and only the needed folders shared, it is reasonable. Avoid public Wi-Fi and turn the server off afterwards.
Does Wi-Fi file transfer need the internet?
No. The transfer stays on your local network; both devices only need to be on the same Wi-Fi.