Send large files
If files are too large to be sent by email, the University of Bern recommends sending them via Switch Filesender. This external service allows you to send large files up to 50 GB. Several files can be uploaded at the same time. There is a limit of 300 GB for all files together. This service is free of charge for members of the University. Switch stores the data on its servers in Switzerland.
After you upload a file to Switch Filesender, a download link is generated, which you can send to the recipient or which Switch can send directly. The file will be deleted after 20 days at the latest (standard) or a maximum of 60 days.
All members of the University can send external people a “voucher” for the use of Switch Filesender. The validity of a voucher link can be set individually (standard 60 days) and during this time it can be used for one upload or an unlimited number of uploads.
What do I need to do?
Find out how to upload and send a file in the instructions (see below).
To log in to Switch Filesender, you need a Campus Account that is linked to a Switch edu-ID account (see instructions “Create Switch edu-ID”; in German). You then log in to Switch Filesender using your Switch edu-ID.
If you want an external person who does not have a Switch edu-ID to send you a file with Switch Filesender, log in and navigate to “Guests” in the top menu bar. There you can enter the person's email address and generate a link that will grant them temporary access to Switch Filesender.
University of Bern regulations
Please consult the University of Bern information and regulations below. Please note that in the case of international research collaborations, export controls may be relevant not only for the exchange of files, but also for the informal exchange of knowledge by email.
Note also:
- Sending or forwarding sensitive data by email is not permitted. If you want to forward files, make sure that sensitive data is sent securely. Depending on the sensitivity of the data, this can be done with a password, an encrypted zip file or general mail encryption.