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How to Send Files with Expiration using GoodSend

Overview

GoodSend's file expiration feature ensures your sensitive files don't remain accessible indefinitely. All files sent through GoodSend automatically expire after 7 days, providing security while allowing recipients enough time to download what you've sent. This article explains how file expiration works and how to leverage this feature effectively.

Understanding File Expiration

When you send files through GoodSend:

  • Files automatically expire 7 days after being sent
  • Recipients are notified of the expiration timeline
  • After expiration, files are permanently deleted from our servers
  • Expired links will no longer work for recipients

How to Send Files with Expiration

Step 1: Upload Your Files

  1. Navigate to GoodSend
  2. Upload your files using one of two methods:
    • Drag and drop files directly into the upload area
    • Click the upload area to select files from your device
  3. You can upload up to 20 files at once (with a combined size limit of 10GB)

Step 2: Enter Recipient Information

  1. Enter the recipient's name and email address
  2. Add a custom message (optional)
  3. Review your upload before proceeding

Step 3: Complete the Send

  1. Click the "Send" button to initiate the transfer
  2. One credit ($1.50) will be deducted from your account
  3. Your recipient will receive an email with a secure download link

Step 4: Track Your Send

  1. GoodSend automatically tracks:
    • Email delivery confirmation
    • When recipients open the email
    • When files are downloaded
  2. You'll receive notifications about recipient actions

Communicating Expiration to Recipients

When your recipient receives the email, they'll be informed that:

  • The files will expire in 7 days
  • They should download the files before the expiration date
  • The link will no longer function after expiration

Managing File Expiration

For Senders

  • Plan accordingly: Ensure your recipients know they have 7 days to download
  • Send reminders: If you notice recipients haven't downloaded files after several days, consider sending them a reminder
  • Re-send if needed: If files expire before download, you can always send them again (using another credit)

For Recipients

  • Download files promptly upon receiving the secure link
  • Save files to a secure location on your device
  • The download link will clearly display the expiration date

File Expiration Benefits

Benefit Description
Enhanced Security Files don't remain accessible indefinitely
Reduced Risk Minimizes unauthorized access if email accounts are compromised
Compliance Helps meet data handling requirements in regulated industries
Server Efficiency Ensures GoodSend servers don't store unnecessary files

Troubleshooting Expiration Issues

Issue: Recipient says the link has expired, but it hasn't been 7 days. Solution: Verify when the files were sent. The 7-day countdown begins from the moment of sending, not when the recipient opens the email.

Issue: Need files to be available longer than 7 days. Solution: Currently, GoodSend offers a fixed 7-day expiration. For extended access, consider re-sending the files when needed or using cloud storage solutions for long-term access.

Issue: Recipient can't find the email with the download link. Solution: Check if the email was delivered to spam/junk folders. You can also resend the files through GoodSend (using another credit).

Quick Tips

  • Always inform recipients about the 7-day expiration when sending time-sensitive files
  • Use the tracking feature to ensure recipients download files before expiration
  • Purchase credits in advance if you frequently need to resend expired files
  • For critical documents, follow up with recipients to confirm successful download
  • Remember that the 7-day period is fixed and cannot be extended or shortened

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