Question about secure file transfer

trish123 · Jan 16th, 2008, 16:52

Hi all, I am running a large scale business and some time I have to transfer large and very important data files to my business partner. I fear about my data because there are many of my business competitors who will definitely try to steal my important data. So there is huge amount of risk involved in sharing my important data on Internet. I recently heard about secure file transfer technique from my friend who is working in well established software company. Does anyone have any idea about what is Secure File Transfer (SFT) service and how does it work?

welshstew · Jan 16th, 2008, 19:11

secure file transfer is when you use encryption to scramble your data. Although ther eare many different ways and software for doing this, the following is the usual path:

use your chosen software to choose the level of security you want(usually 128 bit encryption but sometimes more)
using software you scramble your data and lock it using a pass-key
the pass-key is sent ahead to the recipient
once the pass-key has been successfully received you send the encrypted data
end user unscrambles the data using the pass-key

Most software these day use self extracting pass-keys, so no need for the same encryption software to be installed on the recipients computer.

Although a great tool, the most people use a simple pass-key, i.e. DOB, and as such renders the whole process worthless.

Monie · Jan 17th, 2008, 05:17

I use to zipped up all my file, set a password and sent it to my friends

hermanjoe · Jan 17th, 2008, 09:08

Hi, I am a programmer and I agree with your doubts. SFT is a secure way to move files between almost any two computers across open networks. Secure FTP is very useful when you require high speed file transfer method. It indeed helps in transferring large files and that too in a secure mode. I have personally used this thing and I cannot think of a better solution to your problem. It helps in automation of file transfer processes and I believe it will help you to get rid of the fear of your data being stolen by your competitors.

Good luck and wish you success in your business.