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File sharing and file sharing is an important part of any business today, and with the growing shift to telecommuting, businesses and organizations need to be able to share large files as quickly and securely as possible. Most of today's data is transferred using online tools, so choosing a secure file sharing service is critical to prevent security threats and keep sensitive data safe. In this article, we'll show you how to choose the right file sharing service for your organization.
What is secure file sharing and sharing?
File sharing or file sharing is the practice of sharing or sharing public or personal computer files over the network. Depending on the access permissions, file sharing allows a specific number of people to read, view, or edit the file, depending on the level of authority granted by the file hosting service (file sharing and file sharing service). File sharing services typically allocate a certain amount of file storage per user for each account.
What are the risks and benefits of file sharing?
File sharing and file sharing is an essential component of any enterprise that ensures efficient data synchronization and collaboration between employees and departments. However, it is important to be aware of the security risks associated with any type of file sharing.
Risks:
There are many different types of file sharing and sharing, and the method you choose will depend on the types of files you are sharing and who you are sending them to. Here are some of the most common methods for storing and distributing files on the Internet.
File Transfer Protocol (FTP)
The most common file transfer system on the Internet today is known as the File Transfer Protocol (FTP). FTP is a network protocol used to transfer files between two computers, one of which acts as a server. FTP allows users to access files or programs shared from an FTP server site using a special password. Many FTP sites offer file sharing or allow users to view or download files using a public password.
Best for: Large files or unusual file types
Sample programs: Cyberduck, Firefox
Peer-to-Peer (P2P)
Peer-to-peer (or peer-to-peer) file sharing (P2P) uses software (not your web browser) to transfer files without the need for a central server. Individual users on this type of network are called "peers", ie. Peers - Each peer is an end-user computer that connects to another peer, where files are located, which can then be transferred over the Internet.
Best for: Sharing files between small groups of people. Exchange of media files (photos, books, films).
Sample programs: Instant messaging services such as Skype
Cloud services
With the help of cloud-based sharing services, files are stored in online storage. When a user uploads their data to an online storage or platform, a unique URL is generated. When a file owner shares this URL with other users, he gives them access to download and share files on that platform.
Best for: Fast file sharing, backing up data
Examples of programs: Dropbox, OneDrive, iCloud, Google Drive, Yandex.Disk
Mail providers
Even if you are not familiar with the different types of file sharing, you have probably already used file sharing through email providers. Every time you attach a file or document to your email, you are transferring data over the open Internet.
Best for: Small files, one-time file sharing
Examples of programs: Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo Mail, Yandex.Mail
Removable storage devices
Removable storage uses a physical or external hard drive to transfer files. This file sharing involves copying data to a flash drive (USB) or other external storage device that the end user connects to his computer to retrieve information.
Best for: Very large files or sensitive data.
Examples of programs: USB drives ("flash drives"), external hard drives, CD / DVD
How to choose the best service
Once you have decided on the type of file sharing service that suits your needs, you will need to select a specific service or product. With so many options available, it is helpful to understand the specific features that are most important to you when choosing a file sharing service. Here are some conditions to help you make the right decision.
13 best file sharing and sharing services
While the particular service you choose will depend on the unique needs of your organization, our roundup of the best file sharing services is a great tip to get you started.
1. Box
Box is a cloud-based file sharing and sharing service for businesses and enterprises. It allows organizations to centralize their data and interact with other connected users. Users can invite other users to view or edit shared files, or users can upload files to a shared folder that other users have access to. Box offers a wide range of paid corporate plans as well as a free option for private users.
Pros: Flexible integration for enterprise security infrastructures, encryption key management, advanced security controls
Cons: Budget plans have a strong limitation of functionality
2. Dropbox
Dropbox is a popular file hosting service that includes cloud storage, file sync, personal and professional cloud software solutions. Users can create folders with files on Dropbox servers, which are then synchronized on all connected user devices for easy search. Dropbox Basic offers 2GB of free file storage, while Dropbox Plus offers 1TB.
Pros: Automatic encryption, allows you to share files with users who don't have an account.
Cons: Free plan (Dropbox Basic) has very limited storage.
3. Egnyte
Egnyte is a cross-platform service that is a hybrid of cloud and on-premises storage. It is targeted at enterprises that require advanced security features for files shared within or outside the organization. Files are transferred using Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), making any compromised data useless in the event of a data breach.
Pros: Automatic synchronization of file changes in all copies, automatic saving of additional file backups, advanced encryption and security standards.
Cons: More complex service compared to others.
4. Google Drive
As one of the first big players in cloud file sharing and sharing, Google Drive is a trusted file sharing service for both personal and corporate use. Google Drive allows users to store files and sync digital content across all connected devices, and offers a suite of web browser-integrated tools (Google Docs, Google Slides, and Google Sheets). All data exchanged on Google Drive is encrypted using the TLS standard, the same standard used to encrypt connections between web pages on the Internet.
Pros: Simple interface, 15GB of free storage for new users.
Cons: Requires Google account for collaboration features.
5. iCloud Drive
iCloud Drive is a cloud storage service that integrates with Apple operating systems. ICloud Drive's file sync and storage capabilities are useful if you're already in the Apple ecosystem and iCloud is already installed on new Macs and iOS devices for easy syncing.
Pros: Perfect integration of all Apple and iCloud products.
Cons: Lack of integration with Windows, limited support for corporate users.
6. MediaFire
MediaFire is a small cloud storage player that has shown steady growth over the years. It is designed for users who need a simple file sharing solution without any complex or advanced features.
Pros: Unlimited bandwidth, fast downloads of very large files.
Cons: Limited collaboration functionality, showing ads when used within basic free plan.
7. Microsoft OneDrive
With Microsoft's relentless move towards cloud-based operating systems, OneDrive has become a staple in the latest Windows systems. After authenticating a Microsoft user account, data can be synchronized across multiple folders within an organization. Users are provided with up to 5 GB of free storage space or 50 GB for $ 1.99 per month (prices may vary by country). OneDrive is the easiest option for Windows and Office 365 users.
Pros: Perfect integration with Microsoft Office products.
Cons: No compatibility with Mac operating systems.
8. SecureDocs
SecureDocs provides secure file sharing for organizations that pursue mergers and acquisitions of other companies. With a fixed monthly pricing model, SecureDocs allows an unlimited number of users to use the system.
Pros: The fixed price model provides an unlimited number of user accounts.
Cons: Complicated settings of rights and permissions.
9. SugarSync
SugarSync is a cloud-based file sharing platform that works for both Mac and Windows operating systems. Like Egnyte, SugarSync provides secure file sharing using AES encryption. Users can set permissions based on how much access is given to recipients of shared files, and this allows users to share files without giving direct access to your account. In organizations, shared folders can be accessed from anywhere, and files can be easily shared with clients or other external recipients using a public file-specific link.
Pros: Confidential data can be remotely deleted from devices in case of data leakage, easy file recovery.
Cons: Only paid plans are available.
10. WeTransfer
WeTransfer is a simple and straightforward file sharing service that doesn't require you to register for the service if you don't want to. WeTransfer allows you to share one or more files using a custom link. If you choose to create an account, the Pro account costs $ 12 a month and offers additional features such as creating password-protected download links and expanding your storage space to 20GB (as opposed to the 2GB provided as part of the free plan).
Pros: Simplified one-time file transfer, no account required.
Cons: 2GB limit for free users, no security features.
11. Resilio
Resilio transfers files using the BitTorrent protocol, which offers peer-to-peer communication capabilities. This means that instead of sharing files using a cloud service, they can be exchanged in real time between two devices while both are online. BitTorrent also makes it easy to share large files. Resilio offers many tiers of one-time payments with no file storage limits.
Pros: Better file sharing via BitTorrent, great for sharing large files.
Cons: File sharing is only available to paid users.
12. Tresorit
Tresorit stands out for its advanced file sharing capabilities while remaining a free to use platform. Offers a range of security features including end-to-end encryption, European Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) compliance and password protection, and users can share files up to 5GB.
Pros: Provides a higher level of control over your files after sharing them and strong security protection.
Cons: 5 GB data limit.
13. pCloud
pCloud is a cloud storage platform that provides added security with end-to-end encryption added to all file backups. There is no limit to the size of the files you can share, making it easy to exchange large files. pCloud supports a wide range of devices including Android, Linux, iOS and Windows, making it available to different users or organizations regardless of the operating system used.
Pros: Supports a wide range of devices.
Cons: The encryption feature requires an additional charge.
What is secure file sharing and sharing?
File sharing or file sharing is the practice of sharing or sharing public or personal computer files over the network. Depending on the access permissions, file sharing allows a specific number of people to read, view, or edit the file, depending on the level of authority granted by the file hosting service (file sharing and file sharing service). File sharing services typically allocate a certain amount of file storage per user for each account.
What are the risks and benefits of file sharing?
File sharing and file sharing is an essential component of any enterprise that ensures efficient data synchronization and collaboration between employees and departments. However, it is important to be aware of the security risks associated with any type of file sharing.
Risks:
- Disclosure of confidential data. One of the biggest risks associated with file sharing is the potential for an employee in the enterprise to disclose sensitive data, whether accidentally or deliberately by an insider (internal attacker). If employees do not have adequate information security education or corporate security policies, the risk of data breaches is much higher.
- Vulnerability to cyber attacks. Some file sharing services require you to bypass or disable corporate firewalls in order to safely upload or download files, but this opens up great opportunities for attackers.
- Malicious software download - If a malicious file is placed on the file sharing service you are using, an employee could inadvertently open or download the file and expose your system to viruses, spyware, or any other malicious software.
- Increase efficiency: A file sharing service is a great tool for improving business efficiency because it allows employees to quickly access important files and data when they need it.
- Centralizes file access for consistency. It is difficult to manually synchronize different versions of the same file between all interested employees. And the file sharing service allows you to solve this problem and provide your employees with the latest and most current version of the file.
- Data loss protection. Many file sharing services make it easy to update and back up all of your files in real time, mitigating the impact of a potential computer crash or data leak.
There are many different types of file sharing and sharing, and the method you choose will depend on the types of files you are sharing and who you are sending them to. Here are some of the most common methods for storing and distributing files on the Internet.
File Transfer Protocol (FTP)
The most common file transfer system on the Internet today is known as the File Transfer Protocol (FTP). FTP is a network protocol used to transfer files between two computers, one of which acts as a server. FTP allows users to access files or programs shared from an FTP server site using a special password. Many FTP sites offer file sharing or allow users to view or download files using a public password.
Best for: Large files or unusual file types
Sample programs: Cyberduck, Firefox
Peer-to-Peer (P2P)
Peer-to-peer (or peer-to-peer) file sharing (P2P) uses software (not your web browser) to transfer files without the need for a central server. Individual users on this type of network are called "peers", ie. Peers - Each peer is an end-user computer that connects to another peer, where files are located, which can then be transferred over the Internet.
Best for: Sharing files between small groups of people. Exchange of media files (photos, books, films).
Sample programs: Instant messaging services such as Skype
Cloud services
With the help of cloud-based sharing services, files are stored in online storage. When a user uploads their data to an online storage or platform, a unique URL is generated. When a file owner shares this URL with other users, he gives them access to download and share files on that platform.
Best for: Fast file sharing, backing up data
Examples of programs: Dropbox, OneDrive, iCloud, Google Drive, Yandex.Disk
Mail providers
Even if you are not familiar with the different types of file sharing, you have probably already used file sharing through email providers. Every time you attach a file or document to your email, you are transferring data over the open Internet.
Best for: Small files, one-time file sharing
Examples of programs: Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo Mail, Yandex.Mail
Removable storage devices
Removable storage uses a physical or external hard drive to transfer files. This file sharing involves copying data to a flash drive (USB) or other external storage device that the end user connects to his computer to retrieve information.
Best for: Very large files or sensitive data.
Examples of programs: USB drives ("flash drives"), external hard drives, CD / DVD
How to choose the best service
Once you have decided on the type of file sharing service that suits your needs, you will need to select a specific service or product. With so many options available, it is helpful to understand the specific features that are most important to you when choosing a file sharing service. Here are some conditions to help you make the right decision.
- Security - The level of security required for a file sharing service will vary depending on your business and the privacy of the data you transmit. Take a close look at how each service protects information and decide if it is reliable enough to meet your needs.
- Compatibility. Be sure to research what types of devices and operating systems the service works with to ensure compatibility with the systems used by your company.
- Restrictions. Before investing in a file sharing service, take note of any restrictions in force that limit the number of shared files or the amount of data that can be stored.
13 best file sharing and sharing services
While the particular service you choose will depend on the unique needs of your organization, our roundup of the best file sharing services is a great tip to get you started.
1. Box
Box is a cloud-based file sharing and sharing service for businesses and enterprises. It allows organizations to centralize their data and interact with other connected users. Users can invite other users to view or edit shared files, or users can upload files to a shared folder that other users have access to. Box offers a wide range of paid corporate plans as well as a free option for private users.
Pros: Flexible integration for enterprise security infrastructures, encryption key management, advanced security controls
Cons: Budget plans have a strong limitation of functionality
2. Dropbox
Dropbox is a popular file hosting service that includes cloud storage, file sync, personal and professional cloud software solutions. Users can create folders with files on Dropbox servers, which are then synchronized on all connected user devices for easy search. Dropbox Basic offers 2GB of free file storage, while Dropbox Plus offers 1TB.
Pros: Automatic encryption, allows you to share files with users who don't have an account.
Cons: Free plan (Dropbox Basic) has very limited storage.
3. Egnyte
Egnyte is a cross-platform service that is a hybrid of cloud and on-premises storage. It is targeted at enterprises that require advanced security features for files shared within or outside the organization. Files are transferred using Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), making any compromised data useless in the event of a data breach.
Pros: Automatic synchronization of file changes in all copies, automatic saving of additional file backups, advanced encryption and security standards.
Cons: More complex service compared to others.
4. Google Drive
As one of the first big players in cloud file sharing and sharing, Google Drive is a trusted file sharing service for both personal and corporate use. Google Drive allows users to store files and sync digital content across all connected devices, and offers a suite of web browser-integrated tools (Google Docs, Google Slides, and Google Sheets). All data exchanged on Google Drive is encrypted using the TLS standard, the same standard used to encrypt connections between web pages on the Internet.
Pros: Simple interface, 15GB of free storage for new users.
Cons: Requires Google account for collaboration features.
5. iCloud Drive
iCloud Drive is a cloud storage service that integrates with Apple operating systems. ICloud Drive's file sync and storage capabilities are useful if you're already in the Apple ecosystem and iCloud is already installed on new Macs and iOS devices for easy syncing.
Pros: Perfect integration of all Apple and iCloud products.
Cons: Lack of integration with Windows, limited support for corporate users.
6. MediaFire
MediaFire is a small cloud storage player that has shown steady growth over the years. It is designed for users who need a simple file sharing solution without any complex or advanced features.
Pros: Unlimited bandwidth, fast downloads of very large files.
Cons: Limited collaboration functionality, showing ads when used within basic free plan.
7. Microsoft OneDrive
With Microsoft's relentless move towards cloud-based operating systems, OneDrive has become a staple in the latest Windows systems. After authenticating a Microsoft user account, data can be synchronized across multiple folders within an organization. Users are provided with up to 5 GB of free storage space or 50 GB for $ 1.99 per month (prices may vary by country). OneDrive is the easiest option for Windows and Office 365 users.
Pros: Perfect integration with Microsoft Office products.
Cons: No compatibility with Mac operating systems.
8. SecureDocs
SecureDocs provides secure file sharing for organizations that pursue mergers and acquisitions of other companies. With a fixed monthly pricing model, SecureDocs allows an unlimited number of users to use the system.
Pros: The fixed price model provides an unlimited number of user accounts.
Cons: Complicated settings of rights and permissions.
9. SugarSync
SugarSync is a cloud-based file sharing platform that works for both Mac and Windows operating systems. Like Egnyte, SugarSync provides secure file sharing using AES encryption. Users can set permissions based on how much access is given to recipients of shared files, and this allows users to share files without giving direct access to your account. In organizations, shared folders can be accessed from anywhere, and files can be easily shared with clients or other external recipients using a public file-specific link.
Pros: Confidential data can be remotely deleted from devices in case of data leakage, easy file recovery.
Cons: Only paid plans are available.
10. WeTransfer
WeTransfer is a simple and straightforward file sharing service that doesn't require you to register for the service if you don't want to. WeTransfer allows you to share one or more files using a custom link. If you choose to create an account, the Pro account costs $ 12 a month and offers additional features such as creating password-protected download links and expanding your storage space to 20GB (as opposed to the 2GB provided as part of the free plan).
Pros: Simplified one-time file transfer, no account required.
Cons: 2GB limit for free users, no security features.
11. Resilio
Resilio transfers files using the BitTorrent protocol, which offers peer-to-peer communication capabilities. This means that instead of sharing files using a cloud service, they can be exchanged in real time between two devices while both are online. BitTorrent also makes it easy to share large files. Resilio offers many tiers of one-time payments with no file storage limits.
Pros: Better file sharing via BitTorrent, great for sharing large files.
Cons: File sharing is only available to paid users.
12. Tresorit
Tresorit stands out for its advanced file sharing capabilities while remaining a free to use platform. Offers a range of security features including end-to-end encryption, European Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) compliance and password protection, and users can share files up to 5GB.
Pros: Provides a higher level of control over your files after sharing them and strong security protection.
Cons: 5 GB data limit.
13. pCloud
pCloud is a cloud storage platform that provides added security with end-to-end encryption added to all file backups. There is no limit to the size of the files you can share, making it easy to exchange large files. pCloud supports a wide range of devices including Android, Linux, iOS and Windows, making it available to different users or organizations regardless of the operating system used.
Pros: Supports a wide range of devices.
Cons: The encryption feature requires an additional charge.
