12 Ways To Securely Share Big Files

In today's digital age, the need to share large files has become increasingly common, whether it's for business collaborations, software development, or simply transferring personal media. However, securely sharing these files while ensuring privacy and data protection can be a challenge. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore 12 effective methods to securely share big files, along with real-world examples and technical insights.

1. Utilize Cloud Storage Services with End-to-End Encryption

Cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or Microsoft OneDrive offer a convenient way to store and share files. To enhance security, opt for services that provide end-to-end encryption. This ensures that only you and the intended recipient can access the files, even if the service’s servers are compromised.

For instance, pCloud is a cloud storage service that offers zero-knowledge encryption, ensuring your files remain secure. It allows you to share files with specific individuals or create secure links with password protection and expiration dates.

2. Implement Secure File Transfer Protocols (SFTP)

SFTP is a secure file transfer protocol that uses SSH (Secure Shell) to encrypt data during transfer. It’s an ideal solution for businesses that need to transfer large files regularly. SFTP provides a secure channel for data transmission, preventing unauthorized access and ensuring data integrity.

Consider using SolarWinds Serv-U Managed File Transfer, a robust SFTP solution. It offers features like role-based access control, audit logging, and encryption key management, making it a secure choice for file sharing.

3. Utilize Peer-to-Peer (P2P) File Sharing with Encryption

P2P file-sharing networks, such as BitTorrent, allow users to share files directly without relying on central servers. By using P2P networks with built-in encryption, you can ensure secure file transfers. This method is particularly useful for sharing large files with multiple recipients.

The qBittorrent client is a popular choice for secure P2P file sharing. It supports encryption protocols like SSL/TLS and offers features like file hashing and integrity checks to ensure data integrity.

4. Employ Secure FTP (FTPS) for Encrypted File Transfers

FTPS is an extension of the standard FTP protocol that adds support for SSL/TLS encryption. This ensures that files are transferred securely over the internet, protecting them from unauthorized access.

FileZilla, a popular FTP client, supports FTPS and offers features like encryption key management and certificate verification, making it a reliable choice for secure file transfers.

5. Use Secure Email Services with Large Attachment Support

Some email services, like ProtonMail, offer end-to-end encrypted email communication with large attachment support. This allows you to send sensitive files securely via email, ensuring privacy and data protection.

ProtonMail, for example, provides up to 500 MB of attachment space for free accounts and offers additional security features like self-destructing messages and password-protected emails.

6. Implement Secure File-Sharing Software for Businesses

For businesses, investing in secure file-sharing software can be a wise choice. Solutions like Egnyte offer features like two-factor authentication, data loss prevention, and access control, ensuring that files are shared securely within the organization.

Egnyte’s advanced security features include encryption at rest and in transit, ensuring that data remains protected even if the servers are compromised.

7. Leverage Secure File-Sharing Apps for Mobile Devices

With the increasing use of mobile devices, secure file-sharing apps have become essential. Apps like SendAnywhere allow users to share files between devices without the need for email or cloud storage. These apps often use end-to-end encryption and device-specific security measures.

SendAnywhere, for instance, offers a 64-bit AES encryption and supports various platforms, making it a convenient and secure option for mobile file sharing.

8. Utilize Self-Destructing File-Sharing Services

Self-destructing file-sharing services, such as Wetransfer, allow you to share files with an expiration date. Once the recipient downloads the file, it’s automatically deleted from the server, ensuring a limited window of vulnerability.

Wetransfer offers 256-bit AES encryption and allows you to set expiration dates for your shared files, making it a secure and temporary file-sharing solution.

9. Implement Password-Protected File Sharing

Adding password protection to your shared files is an effective way to enhance security. Services like Dropbox allow you to create password-protected links, ensuring that only those with the correct credentials can access the files.

Dropbox’s password protection feature adds an extra layer of security, especially when sharing sensitive information with specific individuals.

10. Use Encrypted USB Drives for Physical File Transfer

For physical file transfers, encrypted USB drives are a secure option. These drives use hardware-based encryption, ensuring that even if the drive is lost or stolen, the data remains protected.

The SanDisk iXpand Flash Drive is a great example of an encrypted USB drive. It offers 256-bit AES encryption and is specifically designed for Apple devices, making it a convenient and secure choice for transferring files between devices.

11. Employ Secure Online File-Sharing Platforms

Online file-sharing platforms like Box offer advanced security features, including two-factor authentication, data loss prevention, and audit logging. These platforms are designed to meet the strictest security standards, ensuring that your files are protected.

Box’s security features include military-grade encryption and a zero-trust security model, making it a reliable choice for secure file sharing.

12. Implement End-to-End Encrypted Chat Apps for File Sharing

Secure chat apps, such as Signal, offer end-to-end encryption for both text messages and file transfers. This ensures that your conversations and shared files remain private and secure.

Signal’s end-to-end encryption protocol, Signal Protocol, is widely regarded as one of the most secure messaging protocols, making it an excellent choice for private file sharing.

Conclusion

Securing big files during transfer is crucial to maintaining privacy and data protection. By implementing the methods outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your sensitive information remains safe, whether you’re sharing files with colleagues, clients, or personal contacts. Remember to choose solutions that align with your specific needs and security requirements, and always stay updated with the latest security practices.