GoodSend allows recipients to preview files before downloading them, saving time and ensuring they're accessing the correct content. This feature helps recipients verify file contents without committing to a full download, especially useful for larger files.
How File Preview Works
When you receive a GoodSend link, you can preview compatible file types directly in your browser before deciding to download them. This feature works seamlessly across desktop and mobile devices.
Supported File Types for Preview
Category
Supported File Types
Documents
PDF, DOCX, DOC, XLSX, XLS, PPTX, PPT, TXT
Images
JPG, JPEG, PNG, GIF, BMP, SVG
Media
MP4, MP3 (audio preview)
Other
CSV, HTML
Step-by-Step Preview Instructions
Open the GoodSend email: Click on the link in the email you received from the sender
Access the secure download page: The link will take you to a secure page showing all files shared with you
Select file to preview: Files with preview capability will show a "Preview" icon or option
View the file: The preview will open directly in your browser window
Navigate multi-page documents: Use the navigation controls to move between pages if applicable
Download if desired: After previewing, you can choose to download the file or close the preview
Preview Limitations
Some complex files may display differently in preview mode compared to their native applications
Files larger than 100MB may have limited preview functionality
Certain specialized file formats may not support preview
Preview quality is optimized for viewing, not editing
Mobile Device Previewing
When accessing GoodSend files on mobile devices:
Tap the file you wish to preview
The preview will automatically adjust to your screen size
Use pinch gestures to zoom in/out on documents and images
Rotate your device for landscape view of wider documents
Security Considerations
File previews maintain the same level of security as downloads
No files are stored locally during preview unless you choose to download
Preview activity is tracked and visible to the sender
All preview activity occurs through encrypted connections
Troubleshooting Preview Issues
If you encounter problems with file previews:
Preview not loading: Try refreshing your browser or using a different browser
Slow preview: For large files, allow additional time for the preview to generate
Formatting issues: Some complex formatting may not display perfectly in preview mode
Preview unavailable: Some file types don't support preview - download the file instead
Black screen or error: Clear your browser cache and cookies, then try again
Sending Files with Preview in Mind
For senders wanting to ensure recipients can preview files:
Use common file formats when possible (PDF, JPG, etc.)
Keep files under 100MB for optimal preview performance
For presentations or documents, consider simplifying complex elements
Test the preview functionality by sending yourself the file first
Quick Tips
Preview is available without creating a GoodSend account
Files still expire after 7 days, even if only previewed
For critical documents, downloading provides the most accurate representation
Preview feature works on all major browsers (Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge)
Senders can see when recipients preview files in their tracking information
Use preview to quickly verify you've received the correct files before downloading
Need to send your own large files securely? Visit GoodSend and send files up to 10GB for just $1.50 per send.
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