How to Send Large Files Using Outlook

In today’s digital landscape, email remains a primary method for sharing information. However, sending large files through email can be challenging due to size limits. Microsoft Outlook, a widely used email service, offers built-in solutions to help overcome these file size restrictions. This guide will cover how to send large files using Outlook, how to use OneDrive for bigger attachments, and alternative options for file transfers.

• Outlook’s File Attachment Limit
• Use OneDrive for Large File Sharing
• Set Sharing Permissions in OneDrive
• Other Options for Sending Large Files with Outlook
• TransferRocket: A Simple Alternative for Large File Transfers
• FAQ
  • How do I attach a file larger than 20 MB in Outlook?
  • How can I share a large file for free?
  • Can I use Outlook on mobile to send large files?
• Conclusion

Outlook’s File Attachment Limit

Outlook has a 20 MB attachment limit. If your total file size exceeds this limit, it cannot be sent directly through email. But there are multiple ways to work around this, allowing you to send large files without issue.

Use OneDrive for Large File Sharing

Microsoft’s cloud storage service, OneDrive, integrates seamlessly with Outlook and can be used to share large files. When you attach a large file, Outlook will automatically prompt you to upload it to OneDrive if it exceeds the attachment limit. Here’s how to use OneDrive with Outlook:

1. Compose your email in Outlook.
2. Select Attach File and choose your large file.
3. When prompted, choose Upload and Share as OneDrive Link.

This option uploads the file to OneDrive and includes a shareable link in the email. Your recipients can download or view the file directly from OneDrive, bypassing the email attachment limit.

For more information on using OneDrive for file sharing, check out our guide on How to Share Files Using OneDrive.

Set Sharing Permissions in OneDrive

When sharing files through OneDrive, you can control who can access your content by setting permissions. To adjust permissions:

1. After uploading the file, click on Link Settings in the OneDrive prompt.
2. Choose who can access the file: Anyone with the link, People in your organization, or Specific people.
3. Set permissions for the link, such as View only or Edit.
4. Confirm settings and share the link in your Outlook email.

This method ensures that only the intended recipients can access your file, adding a layer of security to your file transfers.

Other Options for Sending Large Files with Outlook

In addition to OneDrive, here are some other methods to consider for sending large files with Outlook:

• Compress Files: Reduce file size by compressing files into a .zip format which can make them small enough to send as an attachment.
• Use a Third-Party Cloud Service: Services like Google Drive and Dropbox are compatible with Outlook and also allow you to share files with links.
• Split Files: For very large files, consider splitting them into smaller parts with file-splitting software.

TransferRocket: A Simple Alternative for Large File Transfers

If you frequently need to share large files, using a dedicated file transfer service like TransferRocket may be more convenient. TransferRocket is designed to handle large file sizes - up to 5 GB for free and up to 200 GB as a paid option - making it an ideal solution for files too large for email.

TransferRocket also offers added customization options for transfers:

• Expiration Dates: Set how long your files remain accessible.
• Password Protection: Add a password to your file transfers for enhanced security.
• Transfer Modes: Choose to send files via a link or directly by email.

With TransferRocket, files are stored temporarily and deleted after the designated expiration, ensuring that files are only accessible for a limited time. Learn more about How to Transfer Files with TransferRocket and see if TransferRocket is the right choice for your needs.

FAQ

How do I attach a file larger than 20 MB in Outlook?

If your file exceeds 20 MB, Outlook will prompt you to upload it to OneDrive and share a link. This lets you bypass the email’s attachment limit.

How can I share a large file for free?

Using OneDrive through Outlook is a convenient option for sharing large files without cost. For very large files, services like TransferRocket also offer free transfers up to 5 GB.

Can I use Outlook on mobile to send large files?

Yes, Outlook’s mobile app supports sharing files via OneDrive. Simply attach the file, and Outlook will prompt you to upload it to OneDrive if it exceeds the size limit.

Conclusion

Sending large files through Outlook is straightforward when you understand your options. With OneDrive integration, Outlook allows users to bypass attachment limits, making it simple to share larger files seamlessly. However, for users with higher volume needs or unique transfer requirements, services like TransferRocket provide flexibility and additional security options. Whether you're sharing through cloud storage or using a dedicated transfer service, there’s a solution that meets the demands of large file transfers.

For more guides on sending files, check out these related posts:

• How to Send Large Files Securely and Efficiently
• How to Transfer Files with TransferRocket