Forum Discussion
Is the Phone Link app safe and reliable?
I just got a new computer and wanted to find an easy way to transfer files between my phone and computer, so I installed the Phone Link app and connected my phone to my computer. I’d like to confirm whether this app is safe and reliable, or if I should unpair my devices right away.
3 Replies
Phone Link is an official Microsoft app and is generally safe to use.
First, make sure the Windows app is Phone Link published by Microsoft Corporation, and the phone app is Link to Windows, also published by Microsoft. Avoid similarly named apps from unknown developers or unofficial download sites.
The app is usually reliable, but available features depend on the phone model. Connections can occasionally stop working because of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or phone battery-saving settings. It is useful for transferring files, but it should not be treated as a backup. After moving an important file, confirm that the copy opens correctly before deleting the original.
The app frequently shows phones as "offline" or disconnects unexpectedly.
Uses an encrypted connection between your devices and your account where applicable.
Requires you to explicitly grant permissions on your phone.
You might choose to unpair
- The computer is shared or public.
- You accidentally connected to the wrong PC.
- You no longer want your phone data accessible from that computer.
