"Connection Failed?" A Quick Troubleshooting Guide for Sharemy

You've selected your file, chosen a device, and... you get a "Connection Failed" error. While our peer-to-peer (P2P) technology is incredibly fast and secure, the direct connection it creates can sometimes be blocked by strict networks or firewalls.

The good news is that most issues are easy to fix. Here’s a simple guide to troubleshooting common connection and speed problems.

Why Do I See a "Connection Failed" Error?

This is the most common issue, and it almost always means something is blocking the direct P2P connection between you and the other user. Here are the most common causes and their solutions.

1. You're on a Restrictive Network

   The #1 cause of a failed connection is a restrictive network, like a corporate office, university, or public Wi-Fi. These networks often have strict firewalls that block P2P connections.

   The Fix: Have one person switch their network. For example, if you're on your office Wi-Fi, try switching to your phone's mobile hotspot. This one change is often all it takes to create a successful connection.

2. You Changed Your Network Settings

   Our application is sensitive to network changes to ensure a stable connection. If a person changes their network settings while they are in a room, it will raise a connection error and cause them to leave the room automatically.

   The Fix: Ensure both users remain on the same stable network throughout the entire file transfer process.

3. Your VPN is Active

   Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are great for privacy, but they can interfere with the WebRTC technology that Sharemy uses to create a direct link.

   The Fix: If you or the other user has a VPN active, try temporarily disabling it and attempting the file transfer again. You can re-enable it as soon as the transfer is complete.

4. Your Session Timed Out

   To protect your privacy and free up resources, Sharemy has a session timeout of 15 minutes. If your tab has been idle for too long, the connection may be severed.

   The Fix: Simply refresh the page to start a new session, create a new room, and try the transfer again.

Troubleshooting Slow File Transfers in Sharemy

You've connected successfully, but the progress bar is barely moving. In a P2P transfer, the speed is limited by the slowest of the two connections—specifically the sender's upload speed.

How to Improve Transfer Speed:

• Use the Same Network: For the best performance, mobile-to-mobile or PC file sharing works most seamlessly when both devices are on the same network.
• Avoid Mobile Data for Large Files: While transfers work over mobile internet, sharing large files via a mobile network is unstable and rarely succeeds. For large files, Wi-Fi is strongly recommended.
• Move Closer to Your Router: A weak Wi-Fi signal can dramatically reduce your speed. Simply moving closer to your Wi-Fi router can make a huge difference.
• Check Your Upload Speed: Use a free tool like Speedtest.net to see your upload speed. This will give you a realistic idea of your maximum transfer rate.

Quick Troubleshooting Checklist

Before you start a transfer, run through this quick mental checklist:

• ✅ Are both users on the same, stable Wi-Fi network?
• ✅ Is anyone on a restrictive network (like an office or school)?
• ✅ Is anyone using a VPN?
• ✅ Has the session been idle for more than 15 minutes?

Most of the time, a quick check of these points will help you solve any issue and get you back to sharing files quickly and securely.