How to Send Large Files via Email: A Step-by-Step Guide

Today, we’re sharing more multimedia information than ever before. From plain text dotted with emoji’s to full size video files and everything in between. Of course, the internet now has the capacity to host and deliver all kinds of media, however, it is often the case that your email client will limit the amount of data you can send per message. This means that, for anyone working with large files such as audio, video, or images, you will very quickly need an alternative way to share your work.

That’s not to say that it is impossible to send large files over email, and luckily, there’s a few different ways to go about it. Here, we’ll take a look at how to share large files via email, ensuring that whatever type of data you need to send, you can quickly and easily give your colleagues, clients or friends access.

How Large of a File Can I Email?

When it comes to sending large files through email, you’ll often find your attachment sizes are limited by your email provider. Each provider has its own set of rules for what you can attach, these are as follows:

Additionally, most email attachments will be MIME encoded for security, this can add an extra 30% or so to your file size, further reducing the capacity for sending large files.

How to Email a Large File – Three Surefire Methods

If you find that your email provider prevents you from sending larger files, there are a number of ways you can get around the problem. Below, we detail how to email large video, audio, image, and other files using a few different methods.

Use an Archiving Solution

Archiving tools for large files have been around since the early days of home computing. Back when even a couple of megabytes was thought of as a large file, archiving tools allowed you to compress files into smaller sizes for storage or to be sent through email. There are a number of solutions currently available and a few are even built directly into your computer’s operating system. To email a large file using this method, take a look at the following options:

Naturally, each tool has its own process for archiving or compressing your files, however, this can usually be done with a few simple steps. Files can also be encrypted with a password for an added layer of security when sending sensitive data.

Using Cloud Storage

Cloud storage solutions are among the easiest ways to share large files through email. Popular options include Google Drive, Dropbox, One Drive, and iCloud, however, there are many more currently available. The added bonus with using the cloud storage method is that you can also easily learn how to send large files from your smartphone or tablet.

In truth, using the cloud storage method doesn’t send large files through your email at all, it simply provides a secure link for the recipient to download your file directly to their computer or smartphone. This is why it is perfect for mobile users, while also ensuring a high level of security when sharing files and data.

However, depending on the email provider you use, attaching cloud files may be super simple or frustratingly complex—it really depends on the type of support your email provider currently offers for cloud-based computing.
 

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Use a Service Specifically for Sending Large Files

Since email providers have always limited the size of files that can be sent, a number of third-party services have sprung up to solve the problem. In essence, the user uploads large files and then the service provides a link for the recipient to download. While they are quick and easy to use, they have a number of drawbacks. These include intrusive advertising and the fact that you must entrust a third-party with your data. While these services may be useful for unimportant files and data, it is recommended that you avoid them when sending sensitive files through email.  

Sending large files through email is a relatively simple process. If you’re tired of navigating different tools and clumsily attaching cloud files through your current email app, then give Spike a try. We simplify the cloud integration process ten-fold by enabling you to connect your accounts in short, quick steps. We’ve integrated seamless cloud file attachments so you can easily send large files through email without skipping a beat.

Spike Notes is also an extremely useful tool for sharing large files. Spike Notes brings all your file storage out of the Cloud and directly into your Inbox. Best of all, you can then share the Note with anyone you want, even if they don’t use Spike. You can store files there, or easily download them. Spike’s free accounts get 5 GB of storage, Pro users get 50 GB, and Business users get 100 GB.

Our innovative features don’t stop there, check out our 21st-century take on email and see for yourself.