Link Expiration Guide: Auto-Delete Shared Files

Shared file links don't have to live forever. Link expiration gives you control over how long files remain accessible – an essential security feature for sensitive documents. This guide covers everything about configuring and managing expiring links.

Why Links Should Expire

Permanent links create long-term risks:

• Forgotten shares – Links shared years ago still work
• Outdated content – Old versions remain accessible
• Security drift – More time means more exposure risk
• Compliance issues – Data retention requirements

Automatic expiration eliminates these concerns without manual intervention.

Setting Link Expiration in GetShared

When Creating a Share

1. Select file or folder to share
2. Click "Share"
3. Enable "Link Expiration"
4. Choose expiration type:
   • Specific date – Expires on chosen date
   • Time period – Expires after X hours/days/weeks
   • Download count – Expires after X downloads
5. Create link

Modifying Existing Links

1. Go to "My Shares"
2. Find the share
3. Click "Edit"
4. Adjust expiration settings
5. Save changes

Expiration Strategies by Use Case

Client Deliverables

Recommended: 30-day expiration

• Long enough for client review
• Short enough to maintain control
• Can extend if needed

Sensitive Documents

Recommended: 24-48 hour expiration + password-protected sharing

• Minimal exposure window
• Forces timely access
• Combined with other security measures

Team Resources

Consider: No expiration with access controls

• Team members need ongoing access
• Use team collaboration features for permissions
• Enable file versioning instead

Event or Project Files

Recommended: Event date + 7 days

• Available through the event
• Brief window for follow-up
• Automatic cleanup

Download Limits as Expiration

An alternative to time-based expiration:

• Set maximum download count
• Link deactivates after limit reached
• Useful when you know exactly how many recipients

Example: Sending to 5 people? Set limit to 5 downloads. Any additional attempts indicate unauthorized sharing.

Combining Expiration with Other Features

Maximum security combines multiple protections:

• Password protection (password-protected sharing)
• Time-based expiration
• Download limits
• Download tracking (download tracking)
• End-to-end encryption (end-to-end encryption)

What Happens When Links Expire

When a link expires:

• Recipients see "This link has expired" message
• Files remain in your storage (not deleted)
• You can create a new link anytime
• Download history preserved

Expiration and Compliance

Link expiration helps meet regulatory requirements:

• GDPR – Data minimization principle (GDPR compliance)
• HIPAA – Minimum necessary access (HIPAA compliance)
• Internal policies – Document retention schedules

Free vs. Competitor Comparison

GetShared is the only major service offering full expiration controls on free accounts.

Getting Started

sign up for GetShared to start creating expiring links today. Your first 20GB includes all security features – password protection, link expiration, download tracking, and end-to-end encryption.