Gmail has an attachment size limit of 25 MB for a single email, including both the email text and attachments. If you need to send files larger than this limit, here are several methods to help you:
1. Google Drive
Gmail integrates with Google Drive, allowing you to send large files easily. Here’s how:
- Upload to Google Drive: Upload your file to Google Drive.
- Insert from Drive: In Gmail, click on the Google Drive icon when composing an email.
- Select Your File: Choose the file from your Google Drive.
- Send: Gmail will include a link to the file in your email. Ensure the file permissions are set so the recipient can view or download it.
2. File Compression
Compressing files can reduce their size:
- Compress Files: Use file compression software (e.g., WinRAR, 7-Zip) to compress files into a ZIP or RAR archive.
- Check Size: Ensure the compressed file is under 25 MB.
- Attach and Send: Attach the compressed file to your email.
3. Split Files
If compression is insufficient, split the file into smaller parts:
- Split Files: Use software like WinRAR to split the file into multiple parts.
- Attach Multiple Emails: Attach each part to separate emails.
- Provide Instructions: Include instructions for reassembling the parts.
4. Use Other Cloud Storage Services
If you prefer other services over Google Drive, you can use Dropbox, OneDrive, or similar:
- Upload to Cloud Storage: Upload the file to your chosen service.
- Get Shareable Link: Generate a shareable link for the file.
- Include Link in Email: Paste the link into your Gmail message.
5. Use File Transfer Services
Services like WeTransfer, Send Anywhere, or Filemail allow you to send large files without requiring an account:
- Upload File: Visit the service’s website and upload your file.
- Generate Link: Get a download link after uploading.
- Email the Link: Include the link in your Gmail message.
Steps to Send Large Files via Google Drive in Gmail
- Compose a New Email: Click on the “Compose” button in Gmail.
- Click the Google Drive Icon: It’s located at the bottom toolbar of the compose window.
- Upload or Select File:
- If the file is already in Google Drive, select it from the list.
- To upload a new file, click “Upload” and select the file from your computer.
- Insert as Drive Link: Ensure the file is inserted as a Google Drive link.
- Adjust Permissions: Set the file permissions so the recipient can view or download it. Click on “Change to anyone with the link” and select the appropriate permission level.
- Send Email: Complete your email and click “Send”.
Tips for Managing Large Attachments
- Optimize File Size: Before uploading, consider optimizing the file size (e.g., reducing image resolution).
- Check Recipient’s Access: Ensure the recipient has access to the cloud storage service used.
- Use Secure Services: For sensitive data, use secure file transfer services.
By following these methods, you can effectively send large files through Gmail without being constrained by the 25 MB attachment limit.