# ShareDrop — Peer-to-Peer File Sharing in the Browser via WebRTC

> A web-based file sharing application inspired by Apple AirDrop. Uses WebRTC for direct peer-to-peer transfers between devices on the same network or across the internet without uploading files to any server.

## Install

Save in your project root:

# ShareDrop — Peer-to-Peer File Sharing in the Browser via WebRTC

## Quick Use
```bash
git clone https://github.com/szimek/sharedrop.git
cd sharedrop
npm install
npm start
# Open http://localhost:3000 in two browser tabs to transfer files
```

## Introduction
ShareDrop is an open-source, browser-based file sharing tool that sends files directly between devices using WebRTC peer-to-peer connections. No file ever touches a server, making transfers fast and private. Devices on the same local network discover each other automatically.

## What ShareDrop Does
- Transfers files directly between browsers using WebRTC data channels with no server upload
- Auto-discovers devices on the same local network for AirDrop-like convenience
- Supports cross-network sharing via unique room URLs for transferring files over the internet
- Works on any modern browser including mobile Safari and Chrome without installing an app
- Keeps all data client-side with end-to-end encrypted WebRTC connections

## Architecture Overview
ShareDrop uses a lightweight signaling server to help peers discover each other and negotiate WebRTC connections. Once the connection is established, files flow directly between browsers over encrypted DTLS/SCTP data channels. The signaling server sees only connection metadata, never file contents. For local network discovery, the app leverages the same signaling server with network-aware room assignment.

## Self-Hosting & Configuration
- Clone the repository and run `npm install` followed by `npm start` for local development
- Deploy to any static hosting platform since the client is a single-page application
- Configure the signaling server URL in the environment to point to your own PeerJS or custom signaling backend
- Set up TURN servers for reliable transfers between devices behind restrictive NATs or firewalls
- Optionally use the hosted version at sharedrop.io with no setup required

## Key Features
- Zero-upload architecture: files transfer peer-to-peer and never leave the users' devices
- No registration, no accounts, no file size limits imposed by the application
- Responsive design works on desktop and mobile browsers equally
- Local network auto-discovery groups nearby devices for instant sharing
- Progressive Web App support allows adding ShareDrop to the home screen

## Comparison with Similar Tools
- **AirDrop** — Apple ecosystem only; ShareDrop works on any device with a modern browser
- **LocalSend** — native app requiring installation; ShareDrop runs entirely in the browser
- **PairDrop** — fork of Snapdrop with additional features; ShareDrop is the original WebRTC file sharing concept
- **Send (Firefox Send)** — uploads to a server then shares a link; ShareDrop transfers directly peer-to-peer
- **croc** — CLI tool; ShareDrop provides a graphical browser interface with no installation

## FAQ
**Q: Is there a file size limit?**
A: ShareDrop itself imposes no limit. Practical limits depend on browser memory and WebRTC data channel stability for very large files.

**Q: Do files pass through any server?**
A: No. The signaling server only helps establish the WebRTC connection. File data flows directly between browsers.

**Q: Does it work across different networks?**
A: Yes. Share a room link to connect devices on different networks. A TURN server may be needed if both peers are behind strict NATs.

**Q: Can I share with multiple people at once?**
A: You can share with multiple peers in the same room, but each transfer is a separate peer-to-peer connection.

## Sources
- https://github.com/szimek/sharedrop
- https://www.sharedrop.io/

---
Source: https://tokrepo.com/en/workflows/asset-a273c773
Author: AI Open Source