We test and compare the top VPN, cloud storage, and file sharing tools so you don't have to. Every recommendation is backed by real research — not sponsored rankings.
A VPN encrypts everything leaving your device — essential for public Wi-Fi, remote work, or anyone handling sensitive data. These are the two best options on the market.
The world's most trusted VPN with 6,000+ servers in 111 countries. Essential for anyone sharing sensitive files or working remotely — encrypts everything leaving your device.
Best value VPN on the market — unlimited simultaneous device connections at a price that beats the competition. Award-winning service with no compromise on speed or security.
Compare VPN Tools
| Tool | Free Tier | Encrypted | Devices | Starting Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🛡️ NordVPN | ✗ No | ✓ Yes | 10 | ~$3.99/mo | Privacy & security |
| 🦈 Surfshark | ✗ No | ✓ Yes | Unlimited | $2.49/mo | Multiple devices |
Short answer: yes, if you care about who can see what you're sending. Most file sharing happens over HTTPS, which provides basic encryption in transit — but your ISP, employer, or anyone on the same network can still see where your files are going and coming from.
A VPN wraps your entire connection in an encrypted tunnel, hiding both the content and destination of your transfers. This is especially important on public Wi-Fi, where unencrypted connections are trivially interceptable. For personal use, Surfshark's unlimited device plan offers the best value. For power users, NordVPN's Threat Protection adds an extra layer on top.
From quick one-off file transfers to long-term encrypted cloud storage — these tools cover every use case for storing and sharing your files securely.
The simplest way to send large files fast — no account needed for basic use. Supports files of any size, with business features like custom branding, tracking, and Outlook integration.
End-to-end encrypted cloud storage from the makers of NordVPN. Your files are encrypted before they ever leave your device — even NordLocker can't see what you store.
European cloud storage with a unique lifetime plan option — pay once, store forever. pCloud Crypto adds client-side encryption for maximum privacy on your most sensitive files.
Compare Cloud Storage & File Sharing Tools
| Tool | Free Tier | Encrypted | Starting Price | File Size Limit | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 📨 Filemail | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | $15/mo | Unlimited (paid) | Sending large files |
| 🔐 NordLocker | ✓ 3GB | ✓ E2E | $2.99/mo | No limit | Sensitive files |
| ☁️ pCloud | ✓ 10GB | ✓ Optional | $3.99/mo or $199 lifetime | 10GB per file | Long-term storage |
Cloud storage tools like pCloud and NordLocker are designed for files you want to keep — they live in the cloud permanently and sync across your devices. File sharing tools like Filemail are designed for sending — you upload a file, the recipient downloads it, and it expires after a set period.
For most people, the right setup is one of each: a cloud storage service for your important files and backups, and a file sharing tool for sending large files to clients, colleagues, or friends without clogging up email or messaging apps. NordLocker is a natural pairing with NordVPN if you're already in the Nord ecosystem — your files are protected both in transit and at rest.