A private alternative to Dropbox sharing
Dropbox is excellent for storing and syncing files — but Dropbox can read what's in them. When a file is sensitive, share it through SealFile instead, where no one can.
Dropbox is built for storage, not secrecy
When you share a file on Dropbox, it lives on Dropbox's servers, encrypted with keys Dropbox controls. That design powers sync, previews, and collaboration — but it also means Dropbox can access the contents, and shared links can be forwarded or left open indefinitely on the free plan.
For everyday documents, that's a fair trade. For a contract, an ID scan, financial records, or credentials, it isn't. SealFile is purpose-built for those moments: encrypt in the browser, share a link only your recipient can open, and let it disappear.
SealFile vs Dropbox sharing
| Feature | SealFile | Dropbox |
|---|---|---|
| Zero-knowledge encryption | ||
| Provider cannot read your files | ||
| Files encrypted in your browser | ||
| No account required | ||
| Password-protected links (free) | ||
| Auto-expiring links (free) | Paid | |
| One-time / download-limited links | ||
| Long-term storage, sync & collaboration | ||
| Free to use |
These tools solve different problems. Keep using Dropbox for storage and teamwork — reach for SealFile when a file should stay private and temporary.
Why people switch for sensitive files
Encrypted before it's uploaded
AES-256-GCM runs in your browser. Dropbox encrypts at rest too — but it keeps the keys. We never do.
Nobody reads your files
Zero-knowledge means our servers only ever see ciphertext. Not us, not a cloud provider, no one.
No identity attached
No account, no sign-in, no profile. A share isn't tied to who you are or your file history.
Passwords & expiry, free
Lock a share with a password or set it to self-delete — features Dropbox reserves for paid plans.
Frequently asked questions
Is Dropbox zero-knowledge or end-to-end encrypted?
No. Dropbox encrypts files at rest (AES-256) and in transit (TLS), but Dropbox manages the encryption keys, so it can technically access your file contents. SealFile is zero-knowledge: files are encrypted in your browser and we never receive the key.
Is SealFile a Dropbox replacement?
No — they solve different problems. Dropbox is built for long-term storage, sync, and collaboration. SealFile is built for private, ephemeral sharing: send a file securely, then let it expire. Many people use both.
Can I password-protect a Dropbox link for free?
No. On Dropbox, password-protected and expiring links are paid features. On SealFile, password protection, link expiry, and download limits are all free.
Do I need an account to use SealFile?
No. There's no sign-up and nothing tying a share to your identity. Dropbox requires an account to upload and share.
Dropbox and other product names referenced here are trademarks of their respective owners. SealFile is an independent product and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Dropbox. This comparison is based on publicly available information as of June 2026 and may change over time — for the most current details, please check Dropbox's own website.
Share the things Dropbox shouldn't see
Zero-knowledge encryption, no account, gone when you say so.