How to Send Files Directly through Email in Windows 11

File Explorer 📁 (the app you use to browse files and folders on your PC) includes a built-in share feature that lets you send documents, photos, and videos straight through your default email app with just a few clicks.

This method works for files up to 25 megabytes in size, which makes it a quick option for sending everyday reports and pictures without needing to open your browser first.

Step 1Find the File You Want to Send

Finding the file you want to send files email is the first step in sharing documents directly from your computer. Open File Explorer 📁 by clicking the folder icon on your taskbar 🖥️ and locate the document, photo, or folder you want to share. If you cannot find the item, type its name into the search 🔍 box at the top right corner of the File Explorer window to track it down quickly.

Step 2Start the Sharing Process

Starting the sharing process to send files email takes just a couple of clicks once you locate your document. Select the file by clicking on it once, then click the Share icon at the top of the File Explorer 📁 window. You can also right-click the file and select Share from the menu that appears to open the Windows sharing window and choose your next step.

• Using the Ribbon: Click on the file once to select it. Look at the top of the File Explorer 📁 window. You’ll see a menu bar. Click on the “Share” tab or button.
• Using the Right-Click Menu 🖱️: Another easy way is to right-click on 🖱️ the file. A menu will pop up. Look for an option that says “Share” or something similar.

Both methods bring up a sharing menu or a box with options. We’re focusing on email, so look for the email option.

Step 3Pick Your Email App

Choosing your email app to send files email happens right after you click the share button. A list of available programs pops up on your screen. Click the icon for the mail program you use, such as Outlook or Mail. Windows automatically opens that app and attaches your chosen file to a fresh message so you do not have to do it manually.

Click the email option for the program you want to use. Windows will then prepare that app to create a new email message for you.

Certain file types also might not be shareable this way. You may need to go into Windows settings to choose your default email app.

Step 4Write and Send Your Email

Writing and sending your email containing the attached document is the final step in the process. Type the recipient address into the To field, add a clear subject line so they know what you are sending, and type a short note in the body. Once your message looks ready, click the Send button just like you normally do with any other email.

Now, fill in the rest of the email details:

• To: Type the email address of the person you want to send the file to.
• Subject: Give your email a clear subject line so the person knows what it's about.
• Message Body: Add any notes or information you want to include.

Click Send to deliver the email and attached file. This sending action starts the email's transmission, ensuring the file reaches its destination within minutes.

Tip: If you're sending a very large file, remember that most email services have limits on attachment sizes (usually around 20-25 MB). If your file is too big, you might get an error. In that case, try using a cloud storage service like OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox. These are made for sharing bigger files.

A Note on File Size Limits

Email file size limits prevent you from sending very large documents or videos when you try to send files email. Most major providers like Gmail and Outlook.com limit attachments to about 20 to 25 MB per message. If your file is larger than this limit, the email will fail to send, and you will need to use a cloud storage link or compress the file instead.

Advertisement

Here's a quick look:

• Typical Email Limit: Most big email providers (like Gmail, Outlook.com, Yahoo) limit attachments to about 20-25 MB per email.
• Work/School Accounts: These can be different based on your company's rules. Some might allow bigger files, while others might be stricter.

Services like OneDrive, Google Drive, and Dropbox handle large files by generating shareable download links. These services allow people to bypass email size limits when sending files, with some offering up to 2GB of free file transfer. Specialized services like WeTransfer also offer direct file sharing as an alternative to email.

Direct email attachments work well for regularly sending small files, avoiding future sending problems. Cloud file links offer better control and are the best choice for sending larger files.

Reference:

Advertisement

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/share-files-in-windows-dcf7d3dc-40f7-111a-0c9e-a8981c4bbc32

Summary

Summarizing how to send files email helps you remember the key limits and steps for sharing documents safely. Direct email works best for quick shares of small files, provided you stay under the attachment size limits of your mail provider. Always check file size and information sensitivity before you share anything important with other people.

Remember to think about the file's size and how sensitive the information is when picking how to share. For quick shares of small files, direct email works well. For larger files or when you need more control, OneDrive is a great option. And for sharing with someone nearby, Windows has a feature called Nearby sharing.

How do I send files via email in 🪟 Windows 11?

To send files via email in Windows 11, open File Explorer, locate the file, right-click it, select 'Send to' and then choose your email client. Alternatively, compose a new email in your email app and use the attachment icon to add files directly from your computer.

Advertisement

Can you send an entire file through email?

Yes, you can send an entire file through email by attaching it to an email message. Most email services and clients allow you to attach files of various types, such as documents, photos, and videos, directly from your computer's storage.

How do I send a file via email?

To send a file via email, open your email client or webmail. Start a new email and look for an 'attach file' icon (often a paperclip). Click it, navigate to the file on your computer, select it, and then send the email with the attached file.

Can you send computer files with an email?

Absolutely. You can send computer files with an email by attaching them. Whether using a desktop email client like Outlook or a web-based service like Gmail, you can easily add documents, images, videos, or any other digital file to your outgoing messages.