In a fast-moving information economy, businesses of all sizes create mountains of data designed to help identify gaps and growth opportunities. Big decisions are often made based on this data, which is why it’s so critical to transfer data-rich files quickly, reliably, efficiently and securely. Balancing all of these requirements can be tricky, especially for organizations that must also adhere to applicable data privacy regulations.
The good news is that transferring large files doesn’t have to be difficult. There are several simple and efficient methods to choose from, depending on the size of the file(s) and the speed at which you want to transfer them.
One option to consider is to use an online service such as WeTransfer, which offers a free service for transferring up to 2GB of files without needing to register or download anything. Another popular method is to use a file compression program such as 7-Zip, Express Zip or WinZip. This will shrink the size of your files, making them much easier to transfer by email or over a faster connection.
A more advanced alternative is to send your files via a virtual private network (VPN) which will allow you to bypass Internet traffic management restrictions placed by your ISP on upload bandwidth. This can be particularly useful for businesses that need to transfer large files over long distances.
Another alternative is to use a USB flash drive which can be easily plugged into multiple PCs. These are available in capacities ranging from 2 GB to 1 TB, providing enough space to easily transfer even the most dense files. This method is convenient because it requires no extra software or tools other than a standard USB cable. However, it’s important to note that these devices are prone to misplacing and could potentially be compromised by malware.
Finally, many smartphones still feature microSD card expansion slots which can be used to quickly and conveniently transfer files. While this isn’t the most ideal method for transferring large files, it can be extremely helpful when you need to move data in a pinch.
In addition to security and automation capabilities, other things to look for in a secure file transfer protocol include support for application programming interfaces (APIs), as well as granular access controls. For example, it’s important to ensure that a secure protocol supports multi-factor authentication. This will help prevent unauthorized access by ensuring that only authorized personnel can access sensitive data. Fortunately, it is possible to find a managed file transfer server that meets all of these requirements and more. One example is JSCAPE MFT Server, which offers built-in security features and workflow automation capabilities to meet both compliance and usability goals. To learn more about how JSCAPE MFT Server can address all of your file transfer needs, please request a demo today.