PlainTray
The Simple Data Tray
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting Started
What is PlainTray?
PlainTray is a free, zero-knowledge encrypted platform for sharing text and files. No account is required — just open the page, drop your content in, and share the short link. Everything is encrypted on your device before it leaves your browser.
Do I need an account to use PlainTray?
No. PlainTray requires no sign-up, no app, and no configuration. Just open the page and start sharing. Your tray code is all you need to access your content.
Is PlainTray free?
Yes, completely free. No account, no credit card, no catch. Just open the page and start sharing.
How do I share a tray?
Copy the URL from your browser's address bar and send it to anyone — by text, email, or chat. The tray code is part of the link, so one click is all the recipient needs.
Can I use PlainTray on my phone?
Yes. PlainTray works in any modern browser on any device — phone, tablet, or desktop. No app required.
What file types can I upload?
All file types are supported. PlainTray encrypts files on your device and never inspects their content, so there are no restrictions on format.
Security & Privacy
What is zero-knowledge encryption?
Zero-knowledge encryption means your data is encrypted on your device before it reaches our servers. We never see your content and cannot decrypt it — only someone with your tray code can. Learn more on our How It Works page.
How does PlainTray's encryption work?
Your tray code is hashed client-side to derive both a tray ID (for database lookup) and an AES-GCM encryption key. The encryption key never leaves your browser. Our servers only ever store encrypted data that is meaningless without your code. See How It Works for the full explanation.
Can PlainTray see my data?
No. PlainTray uses zero-knowledge encryption, which means all content is encrypted on your device before it reaches our servers. We cannot access, review, or read your content under any circumstances.
What happens if I lose my tray code?
If you lose your tray code, your data is gone. The code is the only key to your encryption, and we do not have a copy. We cannot recover your data for you — this is by design to protect your privacy.
What data does PlainTray collect?
We store only what is necessary: encrypted text and file blobs, minimal metadata (tray ID, file sizes, timestamps), and IP addresses for abuse prevention. We do not track browsing behavior, build user profiles, or use third-party analytics. Full details in our Terms & Privacy Policy.
Is PlainTray GDPR compliant?
Yes. PlainTray complies with both the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Swiss Federal Act on Data Protection (nDSG). We collect minimal data, do not track users, and our zero-knowledge architecture ensures your content stays private. Read the full policy in our Terms & Privacy Policy.
Limits & Features
How long are trays kept?
Trays are kept for 7 days after creation and then automatically deleted — including all associated files. There is no way to recover a deleted tray.
How much storage do I get?
Each tray can store up to 5 GB of data. This is plenty for documents, photos, and most files you would want to share. Need more? Our Pro plan offers up to 1 TB of storage.
Can I password-protect a tray?
Not yet. Password protection is a Pro feature that is coming soon. Check our Pricing page for details.
Can I delete a tray before it expires?
Yes. Open the tray and click the delete button. The tray and all its files will be permanently removed.
Can I prevent others from editing my tray?
With a Pro account, yes. View-only mode lets you share a link where others can view text and download files, but cannot edit, upload, or delete content. Check our Pricing page for details.
Comparisons & Support
How is PlainTray different from WeTransfer?
WeTransfer encrypts files in transit but can access them on their servers. PlainTray uses zero-knowledge encryption — your content is encrypted on your device before upload, so not even we can read it. Plus, there is no account required and no file-size nag screens.
How is PlainTray different from Pastebin?
Pastebin stores text in plain form that anyone can read. PlainTray encrypts everything by default, supports file uploads alongside text, and automatically deletes trays after 7 days — no content lingers indefinitely.
How do I report abusive content?
Visit our report page and submit the tray code along with an optional description. We take all reports seriously and investigate promptly.
Still Have a Question?
Couldn't find your answer? Ask us directly.