Dukto Troubleshooting: Fix Common Connection and Transfer Issues

How to Use Dukto to Send Files Between Devices Without Wi‑Fi

What Dukto is

Dukto is a simple, open-source LAN file-transfer tool that copies files, folders, and text between devices on the same local network without requiring internet access or cloud services. It works on Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Before you start

• Install Dukto on each device you’ll use.
• Ensure all devices are on the same local network (same router or same hotspot).
• If using a mobile hotspot from one device, connect the others to that hotspot.

Step-by-step: basic file transfer

1. Open Dukto on both sender and receiver devices.
2. On each device note the displayed device name (visible in Dukto’s window).
3. On the sender, click the recipient device name in Dukto’s list.
4. Choose the item to send:
   • Drag-and-drop files/folders into Dukto’s window, or
   • Click the file icon or “Send file” button and select files/folders, or
   • Paste or type text into the text box to send clipboard/text.
5. The receiver will see an incoming transfer and the progress; transfers start immediately and complete over the LAN.

Sending between different OSes

• Dukto’s interface and workflow are the same across Windows/macOS/Linux.
• File paths and default save locations differ by OS; check Dukto’s settings on the receiving device to confirm where files are saved.

If devices can’t see each other

• Confirm both devices are on the same subnet (same IP range).
• Disable any VPNs on the devices.
• On Windows, allow Dukto through the firewall (Private networks).
• On macOS, allow Dukto in Security & Privacy if blocked.
• Restart Dukto and, if necessary, the router or hotspot host device.

Transfer tips

• For large files, use a wired Ethernet connection or a strong Wi‑Fi/hotspot signal to reduce errors.
• Transfers are local; Dukto does not use the internet, so speeds depend on your LAN.
• There’s no built-in encryption in older Dukto versions—avoid sending highly sensitive data unless you add your own encryption layer (e.g., encrypt files before sending).

Alternatives and when to use Dukto

• Use Dukto for quick, simple LAN transfers with minimal setup.
• Consider alternatives (Resilio, Syncthing, NitroShare, or simple SMB/AFP file sharing) when you need persistent syncing, stronger security, or cross-network transfers.

If you want, I can provide platform-specific install steps or firewall instructions for your OS—tell me which operating systems you’re using.