Introduction
Since launching in 2005, 4shared has remained a recognizable name in file sharing and cloud storage. Over time it has evolved with new features—but also accumulated criticisms. This 4shared review examines what it offers, what users complain about, its trustworthiness, and whether it’s a safe or practical choice in 2025.
-
4shared is a freemium file-hosting and sharing service headquartered in Kyiv, Ukraine. Wikipedia+1
-
It supports WebDAV, FTP, SFTP, along with the typical web interface. Wikipedia+2TechRadar+2
-
Users can store files, share links, preview media, and collaborate to some degree (e.g. basic text editing). TechRadar+2Wikipedia+2
-
It offers mobile apps (Android, iOS) for access, streaming, file management, and offline access. Apple+2Google Play+2
Features & Capabilities
Here is a breakdown of its main features:
-
Generous storage / transfer: Premium users may get up to 100 GB storage and similar transfer quotas. TechRadar+2Wikipedia+2
-
Large file uploads: 4shared allows uploading of big files (e.g. up to 100 GB in some cases) under premium tiers. TechRadar
-
Preview & streaming: Users can preview images, audio, video files, and even edit text within the interface without full download. TechRadar
-
Multiple access protocols: Supports WebDAV so you can mount the account as a folder, FTP/SFTP for transfers. TechRadar+1
-
Folder sharing & collaboration: You can share entire folders publicly, protect them with passwords, allow edits / uploads from others in shared folders. TechRadar
-
Mobile app features: The iOS app (4shared Mobile) supports streaming, offline mode, library access, etc. Apple
-
Desktop client & sync: A 4shared Desktop tool exists to help manage uploads/downloads, folder sync (in a limited / beta mode). Wikipedia+1
FAQs
Is 4shared safe to use?
Not entirely. While it’s not flagged as an outright scam, it lacks strong encryption and has been criticized for past app misconduct. Use caution and avoid uploading sensitive data. MultCloud+4ScamAdviser+4Wikipedia+4
What happens if I don’t log into my account?
Free accounts may lose stored files if you remain inactive for a period (often 180 days or so). Wikipedia+1
Does the free tier support streaming and previews?
Yes — even free users can preview many media types, though with limitations. TechRadar
Can I use 4shared for large files?
Yes, with premium you can upload very large files (some reports up to 100 GB in certain contexts). TechRadar
Why was the 4shared Android app removed?
Because it was discovered to silently display invisible advertisements and make unauthorized purchases. It was later updated and reissued. Wikipedia+1
Conclusion
This 4shared review shows a service rich in features and sharing flexibility, suitable for users who want a robust file-sharing tool with collaboration and multiple access modes. However, it’s not ideal for users needing strong security, long-term reliability without paying, or handling sensitive data.
Final Verdict: 4shared is a powerful tool for general file sharing, media previews, and link flexibility—but you should not rely on it for private or sensitive content. Premium users get far better experience; free users will face speed and retention constraints. Always back up your critical files elsewhere and use encryption if needed.
Free
The Good
- Beyond basic file storage, 4shared offers collaboration tools, protocols, previewing, etc.
- You can customize how links are shared, use password protection, and set folder access levels.
- Free users get around 15 GB (with registration) and access to many basic functions.
The Bad
- Files are not encrypted client-side, so 4shared itself may have access.
- Wait times, bandwidth caps, daily download limits (e.g. 3 GB daily in some cases) for non-paying users.
- You cannot revert to prior versions of a file.