Need to share a file quickly without permanent storage? A tmp link (temporary link) is the perfect solution. This guide shows you how to create temporary file links that automatically expire, keeping your file sharing secure and clutter-free.
What is a Tmp Link?
A tmp link is a temporary URL that provides access to a file for a limited time. Unlike permanent cloud storage links, tmp links are designed for:
- One-time transfers: Share files once without creating permanent records
- Quick collaborations: Send files to colleagues without email attachment limits
- Privacy protection: Files auto-delete, leaving no trace after expiration
- No account required: Generate links instantly without registration
How to Create a Tmp Link (3 Methods)
Method 1: Web Interface (Fastest)
The easiest way to create a temporary file link:
- Visit tmpfile.link
- Drag and drop your file (or click to select)
- Your tmp link is generated instantly
- Copy and share - the link auto-expires in 7 days
Method 2: Command Line (curl)
For developers and power users, create tmp links via terminal:
# Create a tmp link with curl
curl -X POST https://tmpfile.link/api/upload \
-F "file=@/path/to/your/file.pdf"
# Response includes your temporary link
{
"downloadLink": "https://d.tmpfile.link/public/2026-01-11/uuid/file.pdf",
"fileName": "file.pdf",
"size": 1048576
}
Method 3: Python SDK
Integrate tmp link generation into your Python applications:
from tflink import TFLinkClient
# Create client and upload
client = TFLinkClient()
result = client.upload('document.pdf')
# Get your temporary link
print(f"Tmp link: {result.download_link}")
# Output: Tmp link: https://d.tmpfile.link/public/2026-01-11/uuid/document.pdf
Tmp Link vs Permanent Links
| Feature | Tmp Link | Permanent Cloud Link |
|---|---|---|
| Expiration | Auto-expires (7 days) | Never expires |
| Storage | Temporary | Permanent (counts against quota) |
| Registration | Not required | Account required |
| Privacy | Auto-cleanup | Manual deletion needed |
| Best for | One-time sharing | Long-term storage |
Common Use Cases for Tmp Links
1. Sharing Screenshots
Quickly share screenshots with team members. Paste from clipboard (Ctrl+V) directly on tmpfile.link to create an instant tmp link.
2. Sending Large Files
Email attachments limited to 25MB? Create a temporary link for files up to 100MB and share the URL instead.
3. Device-to-Device Transfer
Transfer files between your phone and computer using QR codes. Upload on one device, scan the QR on another.
4. CI/CD Build Artifacts
Share build logs or artifacts temporarily without cluttering permanent storage:
# In your CI/CD pipeline
curl -X POST https://tmpfile.link/api/upload \
-F "file=@build.log" | jq -r '.downloadLink'
Security Best Practices
While tmp links are convenient, follow these practices for sensitive files:
- Encrypt sensitive data before uploading
- Share links privately - don't post tmp links publicly
- Use the 7-day expiration as a security feature
- Consider authenticated uploads for better tracking
FAQ About Tmp Links
How long does a tmp link last?
Anonymous tmp links expire after 7 days. Authenticated users can have longer retention periods.
What's the file size limit?
100MB per file for anonymous uploads. This covers most common file sharing needs.
Can I create multiple tmp links at once?
Yes! Use our API for batch uploads or upload files one by one through the web interface.
Are tmp links indexed by search engines?
No. All temporary file links are excluded from search engine indexing for privacy.
Ready to Create Your First Tmp Link?
Start sharing files instantly with automatic expiration.