Why Can't Attach File in Gmail? Common Fixes and Solutions

Reasons for Unable to Attach Files in Gmail

As a convenient communication tool, Gmail allows users to easily attach files, documents, pictures, etc., which makes email an effective way to convey information. By sending attachments through email, you can easily send the files you need to share directly to the recipient, avoiding the limitations that may be encountered in other transmission methods. So, the "cannot attach file in Gmail" issue might be very frustrating!

There could be several reasons why you can't attach files in Gmail. Here are some common issues and solutions:

1. File Size Limit: Gmail has a maximum file size limit of 25 MB for attachments. If your file exceeds this limit, you won’t be able to attach it. 

2. Browser Issues: Sometimes, the browser you are using may cause issues with Gmail. 

3. Network Connectivity: A poor or unstable internet connection can interfere with your ability to attach files.

4. File Type Restrictions: Gmail restricts certain file types for security reasons. If you're trying to attach an executable file (.exe) or other restricted formats, it won’t work.

5. Gmail Settings: Check your Gmail settings. If you have disabled certain features or have filters that could affect attachments, this may prevent you from attaching files.

6. Third-Party Extensions: Browser extensions or add-ons can sometimes interfere with Gmail's functionality.

7. Firewall or Proxy Server: A firewall or proxy server may be blocking the attachment function in Gmail, which can prevent you from uploading or sending files.

8. Account Issues: If your Google account is experiencing problems, such as being temporarily locked or restricted, you might not be able to attach files. 

9. Device Issues: If you’re using a mobile device, ensure that the Gmail app is updated. 

Solutions for  "Cannot Attach File in Gmail"

Based on the common causes listed above, you can now follow the steps below to resolve the "Can’t attach files in Gmail" issues:

1: Check file size limitations

Ensure that the file you are trying to attach does not exceed Gmail’s attachment size limit: 25MB for standard Gmail account. If it is too large, you can split it into several smaller ones or compress it into a zip file using a professional compression tool.

In addition, you can also use cloud storage like Google Drive to insert large files into your email. Note when you insert files through Google Drive, make sure the file is already in the Google Drive.

2: Clear Browser Cache

If the problem concerns your browser, try clearing your browser cache and cookies. Cookies are automatically generated whenever you visit a website. They store your browsing data and are supposed to improve your browsing experience with faster load. However, the accumulated cache and cookies may also overwhelm your browser and cause some problems, so please clean them regularly.

Besides, you can also try using a different browser or updating your current one to the latest version.

3: Check Internet Connection

Restart your router or try connecting to a different network to see if the issue persists. Methods for detecting network connections include:

• Physical Check: Ensure both ends of the cable are securely plugged in and check for any damage or looseness.
• Using a Cable Tester: Use a cable tester to check connectivity, ensuring that the indicator lights light up in sequence.
• Observing the Network Icon: Check the network icon in the bottom right corner of the computer to confirm connection status and signal strength.
• Checking Network Connection: Ensure the network cable is properly connected and that Wi-Fi is on and connected to the correct network.
• Checking IP Address Configuration: Confirm that the IP address settings are correct and manually reset them if necessary.

4: Verify Supported File Formats

Check if the file you are trying to attach in your Gmail comes with the file type that is supported by Gmail.  To protect your account, Gmail doesn't allow you to attach certain types of files. Gmail often updates the types of files not allowed to keep up with harmful software that is constantly changing.

File types blocked by Gmail are:✎...

.ade, .adp, .apk, .appx, .appxbundle, .bat, .cab, .chm, .cmd, .com, .cpl, .diagcab, .diagcfg, .diagpkg, .dll, .dmg, .ex, .ex_, .exe, .hta, .img, .ins, .iso, .isp, .jar, .jnlp, .js, .jse, .lib, .lnk, .mde, .mjs, .msc, .msi, .msix, .msixbundle, .msp, .mst, .nsh, .pif, .ps1, .scr, .sct, .shb, .sys, .vb, .vbe, .vbs, .vhd, .vxd, .wsc, .wsf, .wsh, .xll,

 

5: Check Gmail Setting

When experiencing issues with attachments in Gmail, reviewing your settings is crucial. Here’s how to troubleshoot:

1. Check Filters:

   • Go to Settings (the gear icon) and select See all settings.
   • Click on the Filters and Blocked Addresses tab. Check for any filters that might be affecting your incoming or outgoing emails, especially those that may block attachments. Modify or delete any problematic filters.

2. Check General Settings:

   • In the General tab, scroll through the settings to ensure there’s nothing unusual that might affect attachments, such as email forwarding or specific preferences.

3. Check Attachment Settings:

   • Although Gmail does not have specific attachment settings, ensure that the options like Chat and Meet, and Keyboard shortcuts are configured correctly, as they can sometimes influence user experience.

6: Disable Any Browser Extensions Temporarily

Browser extensions can sometimes interfere with Gmail's functionality, particularly those related to security, privacy, or ad-blocking. If so, you can disable any browser extensions, especially those related to security or privacy, and see if that resolves the issue. You can re-enable them one by one to identify the real culprit. 

7: Check Firewall or Proxy Server

Check your firewall or proxy settings. You may need to configure them to allow Gmail to upload attachments, or temporarily disable them to test if they are causing the problem.

8: Sign out and Re-Sign in

When facing problems with attachments in Gmail, account-related issues may be the cause. Sometimes, simply signing out of your Google account and then signing back in can resolve temporary glitches. To do this, click on your profile picture in the top right corner of Gmail, select Sign out, and then log back in.

9: Update Gmail 

If the problem persists, it may be related to the device or app you’re using. Ensure that the Gmail app is updated to the latest version. Go to the app store (Google Play Store for Android or App Store for iOS), search for Gmail, and update the app if needed. Updates often include bug fixes and improved functionality.

If you're facing the error “Can’t Attach Files in Gmail,”  please follow this guide to look through the causes and provide effective ways to resolve the problem. If the issue persists after you tried all the solutions, contact the Gmail support team for futher assistance.

Bonus Tip: How to Manage and Back up Gmail Emails

This article addresses the question “why can't attach file in Gmail?”. If you’re considering backing up your Gmail, MultCloud can be extremely useful. Trusted by over 3 million users, MultCloud is a multi-cloud management tool that facilitates the transfer or synchronization of files between various cloud services.

For instance, you can save your Gmail emails as PDFs to your computer or cloud drives, such as Google Drive, OneDrive, or Dropbox, in bulk. MultCloud also enables you to access and manage all your cloud or Email accounts via a single application. Currently, it supports more than 30 different cloud services, including Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox, Box, Google Photos, iCloud Photos, FTP, WebDav, and more.