File expiry matters. Sometimes you want files available for just 24 hours. Other times, you need permanent access. FileGrab Pro gives you complete control over how long your shared files remain accessible.
How Link Expiry Works
Every FileGrab link has an expiration time. When a link expires:
- The link stops working
- Files are automatically deleted
- Storage space is freed
- No further downloads are possible
This is both a security feature and a storage management tool.
Free vs Pro Expiry Options
Free Tier
Free links expire after 7 days automatically. This is set to:
- Keep storage manageable
- Encourage active usage
- Provide reasonable sharing windows
Pro Tier
Pro users can set custom expiry from 24 hours to forever:
| Duration | Use Case |
|---|---|
| 24 hours | Quick, temporary shares |
| 48 hours | Weekend file exchanges |
| 7 days | Standard project handoffs |
| 30 days | Extended collaboration |
| 90 days | Quarterly deliverables |
| Forever | Permanent references |
Setting Custom Expiry
When Creating a New Link
- Go to filegrab.link
- Click the expiry dropdown (shows “7 days” by default)
- Select your preferred duration
- Start uploading files
The expiry countdown begins when you create the link, not when files are uploaded.
Changing Expiry on Existing Links
Pro users can extend (but not shorten) expiry on existing links:
- Go to My Links dashboard
- Find the link you want to modify
- Click the settings icon
- Select new expiry time
- Changes apply immediately
Understanding “Forever” Links
Pro users can create links that never expire. Here’s what that means:
How it works:
- Links remain accessible indefinitely
- Files stay in storage permanently
- Downloads never stop working
- Counts against your storage quota
Good for:
- Portfolio pieces
- Reference documents
- Permanent resources
- Long-term collaboration
Considerations:
- Files use your storage quota until deleted
- You can manually delete anytime
- Good practice to review periodically
Expiry Best Practices
Short Expiry (24-48 hours)
Use for:
- Sensitive documents
- One-time transfers
- Large files you don’t need to keep
- Quick reviews
Benefits:
- Automatic cleanup
- Reduced exposure window
- Less storage used
Medium Expiry (7-30 days)
Use for:
- Project deliverables
- Client handoffs
- Team collaboration
- Standard workflows
Benefits:
- Reasonable access window
- Automatic cleanup after project ends
- Good balance of access and security
Long Expiry (90 days - Forever)
Use for:
- Reference materials
- Ongoing projects
- Permanent resources
- Documentation
Benefits:
- Always accessible
- No re-sharing needed
- Stable links for documentation
Managing Storage with Expiry
Your storage quota accumulates files from all your links. Strategic expiry helps manage this:
Automatic Cleanup
Set appropriate expiry times to automatically free space:
Short projects: 7 days
Medium projects: 30 days
Long projects: 90 days
Permanent: Forever + manual reviewManual Management
Use My Links dashboard to:
- See storage used per link
- Delete links early if no longer needed
- Identify large files
Expiry and Security
Link expiry is a security feature:
Limiting Exposure
Shorter expiry means:
- Less time for links to be shared further
- Reduced risk if link is compromised
- Automatic access revocation
Combined with Passwords
For sensitive files:
- Set short expiry (24-48 hours)
- Add password protection
- Share link and password separately
- Link self-destructs after expiry
Combined with Encryption
For maximum security:
- Use end-to-end encryption
- Set appropriate expiry
- Share encrypted link
- Files are unreadable even if accessed
Common Questions
Can I extend expiry?
Pro users can extend expiry at any time. Free users cannot modify expiry.
Can I shorten expiry?
You can delete the link, but not shorten expiry. For sensitive files, create a new link with shorter expiry.
What happens at expiry?
Links stop working immediately. Files are queued for deletion. Deleted files cannot be recovered.
Does expiry affect downloads in progress?
Active downloads continue. New downloads after expiry will fail.
How is expiry calculated?
From when the link is created, not from upload completion or last access.
Pro Tip: Link Labels
Use link labels to include expiry reminders:
"Q4 Reports - Expires Jan 15"
"Wedding Photos - Forever"
"Contract Review - 48hr"This helps you and recipients understand access windows.
Getting Started
Ready to control your file expiry?
- Upgrade to Pro for custom expiry options
- Create a new link
- Set your preferred expiry
- Share with confidence