If you're running a forum like grwebdevs.com, where you're planning to share GPL (General Public License) themes, plugins, or PHP scripts, then you’ll definitely need a reliable and user-friendly file hosting solution. While your XenForo forum can host small attachments directly, it’s better to use third-party file hosting services to avoid server overload, save bandwidth, and provide fast download speeds to your members.
In this post, I’ll guide you through the best free and premium file hosting platforms suitable for sharing GPL content and large downloadable files in 2025.
Before we jump into platforms, let’s clear up a common confusion:
GPL-licensed software is 100% legal to redistribute, as long as:
Many popular WordPress themes and plugins are GPL — including some commercial ones — which allows redistribution legally. But always do your research to avoid DMCA or copyright issues.
Use a simple shortlink service like Bitly, Shorte.st, or Linkvertise to:
If you're planning to share free GPL WordPress themes, plugins, or PHP scripts, use MediaFire, Google Drive, or Dropbox for long-term, reliable downloads. For short-term sharing or quick updates, go with Pixeldrain or AnonFiles.
Make sure to follow legal sharing practices, give proper credit, and avoid any copyrighted/premium-only plugins without GPL rights.
Have a favorite file host or want to showcase your own download strategy? Share it below!
In this post, I’ll guide you through the best free and premium file hosting platforms suitable for sharing GPL content and large downloadable files in 2025.
Is Sharing GPL Content Legal?
Before we jump into platforms, let’s clear up a common confusion:
GPL-licensed software is 100% legal to redistribute, as long as:
- You do not modify the license or remove original copyrights.
- You do not claim the script/plugin/theme as your own.
- You clearly mention it's released under GPL and you’re just redistributing.
Many popular WordPress themes and plugins are GPL — including some commercial ones — which allows redistribution legally. But always do your research to avoid DMCA or copyright issues.
Top Free File Hosting Services (2025)
1.
- Free Storage: 10 GB (expandable with referrals)
- Max File Size: 4 GB
- Features:
- No waiting time for downloads
- Direct links (with some limitations)
- No auto-deletion (if downloaded frequently)
- Why it's good for GPL: Very beginner-friendly, fast, and easy to use.
2.
- Free Storage: 15 GB
- Max File Size: 5 TB
- Features:
- Direct sharing links
- Easy for users to preview and download
- Trick: Add files to a public folder and generate shareable links.
- Drawback: Google may temporarily block public downloads if traffic is too high.
3.
- Free Storage: 2 GB
- Max File Size: Up to account limit
- Features:
- Reliable
- Direct link support (modify ?dl=0 to ?dl=1 for auto-download)
- Limitation: Bandwidth cap (20 GB/day for free accounts). Avoid hosting viral files.
4.
- Purpose: Anonymous file hosting, no sign-up needed
- Pros: Quick uploads, no limits
- Cons: Short lifespan, files may be deleted or lost
- Warning: Use only for short-term or less important files.
5.
- Free Storage: Up to 10 GB/file
- Features:
- Super fast download speeds
- API support for automation
- Bonus: Great for WordPress theme or script previews with direct link sharing.
Tips for Sharing Downloadable GPL Links
Always include a clear title + short description of the plugin/script.- Mention the GPL license and original source (like wordpress.org).
- Add a password to the file or compress in .zip or .rar for extra protection.
- Include a readme.txt inside the file with credits and installation guide.
- If possible, include version number, so users know what they’re downloading.
Pro Tips for XenForo Users
- You can use BB codes to format download posts nicely:
-
Code:
[B]Plugin Name:[/B] RankMath SEO [B]Version:[/B] 1.0.96 [B]License:[/B] GPL [B]Download:[/B] [URL]https://www.mediafire.com/...[/URL]
Create a dedicated “Downloads” section or forum node for GPL content to organize better.- Avoid uploading files directly to XenForo if you don’t have premium hosting — it will consume a lot of server disk space and slow down your site.
Want to Protect Your Downloads?
Use a simple shortlink service like Bitly, Shorte.st, or Linkvertise to:
- Shorten long URLs
- Track download clicks
- Even earn money per download if you're using ad-shortened links (but be cautious — too many ads can annoy users)
Conclusion
If you're planning to share free GPL WordPress themes, plugins, or PHP scripts, use MediaFire, Google Drive, or Dropbox for long-term, reliable downloads. For short-term sharing or quick updates, go with Pixeldrain or AnonFiles.
Make sure to follow legal sharing practices, give proper credit, and avoid any copyrighted/premium-only plugins without GPL rights.
Have a favorite file host or want to showcase your own download strategy? Share it below!
