Our verdict: Filen offers end-to-end encrypted storage with more free space than Proton Drive and an open-source desktop client that does both folder sync and a network drive. Paid plans are cheap. The catches are a younger service, and free accounts are deleted after three months without a login.
About Filen
Filen encrypts files on your device before upload with zero-knowledge encryption, so the company cannot read them. The desktop app syncs chosen folders, mounts your storage as a network drive in File Explorer and can share files with links. The apps are open source on GitHub; the desktop client is under the AGPL v3.
Every account gets 10 GiB of free storage with unlimited bandwidth and uploads. Free accounts must log in at least once every three months, otherwise the data is deleted after reminder emails. Paid plans range from 200 GiB to 10 TiB, with monthly, yearly and lifetime options that stack on one account.
What it does well
- Zero-knowledge encryption. Files are encrypted on your device before they are uploaded.
- Folder sync. Keep folders on your PC in sync with Filen.
- Network drive. Mount your Filen storage as a drive in File Explorer.
- Shared links. Share encrypted files and folders with a link.
- Open-source apps. The desktop, mobile and web clients are public on GitHub.
Who it is for
Good fit
Privacy-minded users who want more free encrypted storage than most services offer.
Look elsewhere
People who might not log in for months, since inactive free accounts are deleted.
Pros and cons
Pros
- 10 GiB free with end-to-end encryption
- Open-source desktop app
- Sync and network drive in one client
- Cheap paid plans, including lifetime options
Cons
- Free accounts are deleted after 3 months without a login
- Free sign-ups from VPNs or hosting networks may not get free storage
- Smaller, younger company than the big providers
How to install Filen
Run the installer and sign in or create a free account. Set up sync pairs and the network drive in the app afterwards. Log in at least once every three months to keep a free account active.
Questions about Filen
Is Filen free?
Yes. Every account gets 10 GiB of free storage. You pay only for more space.
Can Filen see my files?
No. Files are encrypted on your device before upload, and Filen does not hold the keys.
Will Filen delete my free account?
Free accounts must log in at least once every three months. If not, Filen sends reminders and then deletes the data.
