Requirements

Both computers need DirectConnect, a fast USB-C port and the right cable. The 14-day trial starts only once they connect, so you can check your setup for free.

Operating systems

macOS 26 or later
Windows 11. On PCs with ARM processors, such as Snapdragon, the other computer can open and copy this PC’s files, and you can send files to a computer set to Receive only. The other computer’s files can’t be opened on this PC yet.
Linux: Ubuntu 24.04, Fedora 40 or another distribution of the same age or newer, on an x86-64 computer, with FUSE 3 installed

Ports

Both computers need Thunderbolt 3 or newer, or USB4. Look for a lightning bolt or a “USB4”, “40Gbps” or “20Gbps” label next to the port. Some USB-C ports, such as the front ports on some desktops, are slower and won’t work.

On a Mac, System Information lists them under Thunderbolt/USB4. On Windows or Linux, search for your computer’s model number and “specifications”. How to tell if your laptop has Thunderbolt or USB4 covers each OS.

Cable

A Thunderbolt or USB4 cable gives the most speed. A USB-C data cable also works, at up to 10 Gb/s. The charging cable that came with a phone usually won’t: USB 2.0 and charging-only cables don’t carry the connection. See which USB-C cable you need.

Software

Install DirectConnect on both computers. There’s no file sharing to turn on, no account and no IP address. Your computer may ask for permission the first time DirectConnect runs.

After the 14-day trial, at least one of the two computers needs a licence.