05 sep 2023

How to Create a Link to a PDF: Free and Simple Method to Share Your Files

We all know that PDF stands for “portable document format,” but sometimes, PDFs aren’t as portable as the name suggests. Case in point: the largest PDF file ever recorded had 10,000 pages—imagine trying to share that! Even for more typical uses, like a two-page document filled with high-resolution images, the file size can quickly become a headache. But don’t worry—there’s a way around this. Learning how to create a link to a PDF can save you from these hassles. Instead of worrying about file sizes, you can simply share a link, making things easier and faster. And the best part? You can do it for free and directly from your mobile device—no pricey Acrobat subscription needed!

They Say Sharing Is Caring 

When it comes to file sharing, it pays to be considerate. Too often, large files are sent through messaging apps without a second thought, which isn’t always ideal for the recipient. What if they’re on a limited data plan or traveling abroad? It’s always a good idea to check first—or better yet, make it a habit to share your files as a link. This way, your recipient can choose to download the file when it suits them, saving both time and data. That’s why knowing how to create a link to a PDF is a handy skill—keeping things simple and thoughtful for everyone involved.

How to Create a Link to PDF on iOS

  1. Install the iScanner app if you don’t have it.
  2. Open the file you want to share and tap the Share button in the top right. 
  3. Next, tap Create Link. 
  4. Tap the link in the box and it’ll be copied to your clipboard. 
  5. Choose a messenger and paste the link. All done! 

How to Create a Link to PDF on Android

  1. Install the iScanner app if you don’t have it.
  2. Open the file you want to share and tap the Share button in the top right. 
  3. Next, tap Create Link. 
  4. Tap the link in the box and it’ll be copied to your clipboard. 
  5. Choose a messenger and paste the link. All done! 

What Can Your Recipients Do with the File

On the receiving side, the flow will depend on whether the person has the iScanner app on their device or not. 

  • If they do, the file will be imported to the app where they can edit, add comments and pages, sign, etc.—do all iScanner stuff. 
  • If they don’t have the iScanner app installed, the link will open in their browser and take them to the web version of the app where they can download the file or print it. 

Share Without Limits

how to share a PDF as a link: install iScanner and tap Create Link

Why learn how to share a PDF as a link? File sharing via a link has several major benefits: 

  • You can share the generated link with an unlimited number of users in any messenger—a much quicker and easier way compared to email attachments.
  • You’re not limited to PDFs—share any file format as a link from the app (works for ZIP files as well). 
  • Workaround the limitations various platforms have regarding the size of the files you can share—links are accepted by all. 
  • Your recipients can download or print the file regardless of the platform they use or whether they have the app installed or not. 

However, they will have way more options than download and print if they install iScanner—share a referral link with them and get yourself free premium access.

Brand and Protect Your Documents Before Sharing a PDF as a Link

Whether you’re sending an offer or sharing a piece of your content with a prospect, you could definitely make use of watermarks. It’s a super easy and free tool to protect your content and raise brand awareness in one go—here’s a short guide on how to make a watermark in the app. It doesn’t cost you anything, can be done in a few taps, and might save you loads of trouble.  

Erase and Rewind Cause I’ve Been Changing My Mind…

Have you changed your mind after sharing a PDF as a link with somebody? No worries, It happens to everyone! You can take the access away just as easily as you gave it to them. 

First, open the file in question and tap the Share button. You will see this switcher underneath the thumbnail that reads Link access—simply tap on it, and the file will no longer be accessible via the link you shared. However, it’s worth keeping in mind that if they download it before you disable the access, they’ll still have a copy. 

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