How to Use AirDrop on MacBook

ByJim Miller

Imagine you've just taken an amazing photo on your iPhone or found an important document on your MacBook, and you need to transfer it to your iPad. In situations like these, knowing how to use AirDrop on your MacBook is essential. AirDrop allows you to easily transfer screenshots, files, and more between your Apple devices. However, there are a few prerequisites to keep in mind before you can start using AirDrop on your Mac.

Prerequisites

Before you can send or receive files using AirDrop on your Mac, make sure you have the following prerequisites in place:

  1. Both devices should be within 9 meters of each other.
  2. Enable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi on both Apple devices.
  3. Set AirDrop to “Everyone” instead of “Contacts Only” on both devices, unless you want to limit sharing to specific contacts.
  4. Install the latest software updates for your Mac, iPhone, and iPad.
  5. Ensure that incoming connections aren't blocked in your firewall settings.

AirDrop to Contacts Only or Everyone — How It Works

When setting up AirDrop based on the prerequisites, you'll need to choose between “Contacts Only” and “Everyone.” Here's what each option means and which one you should choose:

  1. Contacts Only: With this option, only people in your device's Contacts app can see your Mac and send you files via AirDrop. This option provides more security as it relies on your Apple ID and associated email addresses or phone numbers.
  2. Everyone: By choosing this option, any nearby Apple device with AirDrop enabled can see your Mac and send you files, even if they are not in your Contacts. This option is useful for sharing files with strangers in public spaces, but it may pose some security risks.

How to Check Firewall Settings for AirDrop

Before using AirDrop on your Mac, it's important to ensure that incoming connections are not blocked in your firewall settings. Here's how you can check and make changes to the settings:

  1. macOS Ventura or Above:
  • Click on the Apple icon on the top left corner of the desktop.
  • Open “System Settings.”
  • Click on “Network” in the left sidebar, and select “Firewall.”
  • If the Firewall is enabled, click on “Options.”
  • Turn off “Block all incoming connections.”
  1. Other macOS Versions:
  • Click on the Apple icon on the top left corner of the desktop.
  • Open “System Preferences.”
  • Go to “Security & Privacy.”
  • Click on the “Firewall” tab.
  • Choose the lock icon and enter your admin password.
  • Click “Firewall Options” and uncheck “Block all incoming connections.”

How to Enable AirDrop on Mac

Enabling AirDrop on your Mac is a simple process. Follow these steps:

  1. Click on the Control Center icon on the top right of your desktop.
  2. Open “AirDrop.”
  3. Enable AirDrop.

How to Use Mac to Share Files With AirDrop

To start sharing files from your Mac to other devices using AirDrop, you can use either of the following methods:

Method 1: File Menu

  1. Go to the location where your file is saved.
  2. Right-click on the file and choose “Share.”
  3. Click on “AirDrop.”
  4. Select the receiver from the list.

Method 2: AirDrop Window

  1. Open Finder from the dock.
  2. Click on “AirDrop” in the left sidebar.
  3. Drag the file onto the recipient's name.

How to Receive Files Via AirDrop on Mac

To receive files on your Mac via AirDrop, make sure you have followed the prerequisites mentioned earlier. Once the files are sent, click on “Accept” on the screen or find them in the Downloads folder on your Mac.

FAQs

  1. Where are AirDrop files stored on Mac?
    AirDrop files are saved by default in the Downloads folder on your Mac. You can find them by opening Finder and navigating to Downloads on the left sidebar.

  2. What is the typical range of AirDrop?
    The typical range of AirDrop is approximately 30 feet (9 meters), allowing you to transfer files between compatible Apple devices within proximity.

  3. What file types are supported in AirDrop?
    AirDrop supports a wide range of file types, including photos, videos, documents, contacts, notes, websites, map locations, app-related files, voice memos, app store links, text, URLs, and audio files.

AirDrop Your Files Now

With AirDrop, transferring files from your Mac to other Apple devices, such as iPads and iPhones, is a breeze. There are no limitations when it comes to file size, making it a convenient alternative to using external hard drives. Start using AirDrop on your MacBook today and experience seamless file sharing between your devices.