If you need to send a 2 GB mod pack, a folder of community configuration files, or a collection of save-game backups to a friend, use ShareIt.onl to package the files into a single share, set an expiry, and hand over a link. This article covers the practical workflow for distributing legitimate, redistributable game files, including how to structure the ZIP, write a README, verify integrity with checksums, and handle the legal and security basics.
Why Not Just Use a Cloud Drive?
General-purpose cloud drives can introduce account, permission, or storage-management steps. ShareIt.onl is a browser-based service that lets you upload up to 100 files totaling 3 GB in a single share without signing up. The recipient downloads in a browser. You choose when the link expires, and you can add password protection or make it a one-time link. A free account adds 20 GB of storage, so you can keep files and issue a fresh link later without re-uploading.
Step-by-Step Workflow for Distributing Mods
1. Prepare the File Package
Do not upload loose files. Create a single ZIP archive that contains the mod folder, a README, and any required redistributable assets. This keeps the download clean and prevents accidental omission of a critical file.
2. Write a README
Inside the ZIP, include a plain-text README.txt that states:
- What the mod does and which game version it targets.
- Installation instructions (e.g., "Extract to
Steam/steamapps/common/GameName/mods"). - Any dependencies (other mods, specific patches).
- A clear statement that you have the right to redistribute the files. If the mod is your own work, say so. If it is a community file with a permissive license, name the license and link to the original source.
- A checksum (see below) so the recipient can verify the download is intact.
3. Generate a Checksum
Use a tool like sha256sum (Linux/macOS) or CertUtil -hashfile (Windows) to produce a SHA-256 hash of the ZIP file. Paste that hash into the README. After the recipient downloads and unzips, they can run the same command to confirm the file has not been corrupted or tampered with.
4. Scan for Malware
Before uploading, scan the ZIP with a reputable antivirus or upload it to VirusTotal. If the mod contains executable files (.exe, .dll, .so), this step is mandatory. Include a note in the README that the file was scanned on a given date and returned clean.
5. Upload to ShareIt.onl
Go to ShareIt Online. Drag the ZIP file onto the page or click to select it. You can add up to 100 files, but for a single mod pack, one file is cleaner. After the upload finishes, the service gives you a web link and a QR code. Choose one of the available expiry periods, or use a one-time link when appropriate. You can also set a password, which you should share separately with your recipient.
6. Distribute the Link
Send the link (and password, if used) to your friend. They open it in any browser and download the ZIP. No account, no app, no sign-up.
7. Keep the Files for Future Shares
If you created a free account, the uploaded file stays in My Files after the share link expires. You can generate a new link without uploading that same file again. For an updated mod build, upload it as a clearly named new version so the old and new packages are not confused.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Forgetting the README. A mod without instructions is a support ticket waiting to happen. Always include a README.
- Using a short expiry for a large file. If your friend is on a slow connection, a 24-hour expiry might expire before they finish downloading. Set a longer expiry, or use the one-time link option instead.
- Sharing a link publicly that contains a password. If you use password protection, send the password through a separate channel (e.g., a direct message, not the same forum post).
- Assuming you have redistribution rights. If the mod is not your original work, check the license. Many mods explicitly forbid re-uploading. In that case, link to the original download page instead.
- Not scanning executables. Even if you trust the source, scan the file. A compromised mod can infect your friend's machine.
When You Need More Than a One-Time Share
If you are distributing a mod that gets frequent updates, or if you want to collect feedback and bug reports, the basic one-off share is not enough. ShareIt.onl offers two features for ongoing distribution:
Request Files
If you need to collect mods, save files, or configuration packs from multiple community members, use Request Files. You sign in with a Google account and create an inbox link. Contributors click the link and upload without an account. Each delivery can contain up to 100 files and 3 GB. Inbox links last 7 or 30 days, received files are kept for 7 days, and each owner download extends an individual file by 24 hours. The official page does not show a password setting for inbox links.
Group Chat
For a closed group of modders or community maintainers, Group Chat is an invitation-only space. Every member must sign in with a Google-connected account. Within a chat, you can attach active, reusable ShareIt links. The chat message text, filenames, and any new attachment copies you upload are encrypted and decrypted in each member's browser using AES-256-GCM. ShareIt stores only ciphertext and says it cannot read it. Your original files in My Files remain separate and keep their normal ShareIt controls. Group Chat is plain text with no calls, threads, bots, message editing, or push notifications. It works in desktop and mobile browsers.
Alternatives Worth Knowing
ShareIt.onl is not the only option. Depending on your specific needs, one of these might be a better fit.
| Service | Best For | Key Limitation |
|---|---|---|
| ShareIt.onl | No-account uploads up to 3 GB, password/one-time links, free 20 GB storage | Group Chat requires Google sign-in |
| SwissTransfer | Very large files (up to 50 GB) without registration | Not end-to-end encrypted; 30-day max availability |
| Wormhole | End-to-end encrypted browser transfers | Transfer-focused rather than a community library |
| Proton Drive | End-to-end encrypted storage and sharing | Free plan limited to 5 GB |
| Google Drive | Granular permissions (view, comment, edit) for stored files | 15 GB shared across Google services |
| LocalSend | Fast local network transfers without internet | Requires app installation on both devices |
ShareIt.onl
The best choice for this scenario: distributing a single mod pack or a small collection of community files to a few friends. No account required for the sender or recipient, up to 3 GB per share, and you control expiry and access. The free account option adds 20 GB of storage for re-issuing links.
SwissTransfer
If your mod pack exceeds 3 GB, SwissTransfer allows up to 50 GB per transfer without registration. Files are encrypted in transit and at rest, but the service does not claim end-to-end encryption. Availability is up to 30 days, and you can set a password and download limit.
Wormhole
For files where end-to-end encryption matters, Wormhole is a strong transfer option. Files are encrypted in the browser and can travel peer-to-peer or via an encrypted server copy.
Proton Drive
If you need to store mod files and share them with controlled access, Proton Drive offers end-to-end encryption for files and metadata. The free plan gives you 5 GB, and share links can have passwords and expiry dates. Verify the current recipient-access requirements when creating the link.
Google Drive
When you need viewer, commenter, or editor permissions for a folder of mod files, Google Drive is a familiar option. A standard Google account includes 15 GB shared across Drive, Gmail, and Google Photos. Check each link’s access setting before distributing it.
LocalSend
For a LAN party or a local modding meetup, LocalSend transfers files directly over your local Wi-Fi network. No internet, no account, no server. Both devices must install the free, open-source app. It is the fastest option for large files when everyone is on the same network.
Final Advice
Before you upload any mod or community file, confirm you have the right to redistribute it. Include a README with installation steps and a checksum. Scan the file for malware. Choose an expiry that gives your recipient enough time to download. If you need to collect files from others, use Request Files. If you are running a closed modding group, Group Chat with its browser-based encryption is a practical option, but remember that every member needs a Google account. For everything else, a simple ShareIt.onl link with a password is fast, free, and requires no sign-up.
