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When a network blocks direct connections

SpareDisk connects two devices directly. Some networks block that kind of connection to protect their users.

Networks that often block it

Corporate, school, guest and hotel Wi-Fi, and some mobile carrier networks.

What to try

Put both devices on a home network or a phone hotspot. Turn off VPNs. If neither device can leave the restricted network, a direct connection may not be possible.

What's coming

A relay option for networks that block direct links is on the roadmap as an optional paid feature.

Try it with the two devices you have

Open SpareDisk on both, scan the QR code, type the reply code, and send. Free to start, no account.

Open SpareDisk

Questions

Is this a bug?

No. It's how some networks are configured. A direct connection needs the network to allow it.

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