SimpleHTTPServer is a lightweight, easy-to-use file sharing HTTP server written in Java. The project started small but has grown to ~2000 lines — so “Simple” refers more to the UX than the codebase. It’s designed for fast file transfers over a LAN (e.g. LAN parties) and aims to let you share files with friends using the full bandwidth of your network.
- Download & unzip the release.
- Run
start.bat. - Open the shown
http://...address in your browser and start uploading/downloading.
No complex setup — just unpack and run.
- Serve one or multiple directories via a friendly web UI (configure directories in the config).
- Upload and download files through the browser.
- Preview mode (optional): play videos and audio or view images and text directly in the browser.
- Thumbnails for videos (optional) — requires ffmpeg installed. Learn more: https://www.ffmpeg.org/
- “Download all” button: stream the directory as a ZIP archive on-the-fly (no temporary zip files required).
- Range-request support for media files (seeking in video/audio).
- Safe path handling (prevents directory traversal, serves only configured folders).
- Runs on Java 8 (and newer Java versions).
- Simple to use — intended for quick LAN file sharing (fast transfers, minimal friction).
Ideal for sharing files inside a LAN (e.g. with friends at a LAN party). The UI makes it trivial to upload, download or preview media without installing extra tools on clients.
- Java 8+ runtime
- (Optional)
ffmpegfor video thumbnail generation - Allow the app through Windows Defender Firewall (enable access on your Private network) so other PCs on the LAN can see and connect to your server.