File transfer is essential to the organization’s operations, as it handles all types of sensitive data. File transfer protocols are vital for storing data in endpoints and networks. Businesses are increasingly turning to secure file transfer to safeguard and share data more reliably. Before going into depth about best practices and secure file transfer services, let’s look at the different types of protocols used for secure file transfers.
Types of Secure File Transfer
Here are five types of secure file transfers:
SSH File Transfer Protocol (SFTP)
SFTP, the most extensively used file transfer protocol today, was designed by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF). SFTP Secure Shell uses cryptography to encrypt sending data.
File Transfer Protocol Over SSL (FTPS)
FTPS is an attempt to use the Secure Sockets Layer to make FTP more secure. Since FTPS requires two ports on the client-server, migrating FTPS over a firewall can be difficult. There is also explicit FTPS (FTPES), which adds more security features to file sharing.
Applicability Statement 2 (AS2)
Many trading partners in the retail and automotive industries use the AS2 protocol. To transmit encrypted communications, AS2 uses S/MIME and HTTPS.
ODETTE File Transfer Protocol 2 (OFTP2)
OFTP2 is a TCP / IP protocol widely used in the automobile industry, especially in Europe. OFTP2 can compress large amounts of data, making it a fast way to transfer large files.
User Datagram Protocol (UDP)
User Datagram Protocol (UDP) is a protocol that allows (UDP), like TCP, as a transport layer protocol. However, unlike other protocols, UDP does not include “overheads” associated with handshakes, certificates, or receipts.
Secure File Transfers Best Practices
Following are some steps that can ensure data safety while sharing;
Educate Employees
As with many security concerns, the first approach is usually to raise awareness. Therefore, organizations should educate their employees about the need to put security first when it comes to filing sharing security.
Reliable File-Sharing Solution
Use a reliable file-sharing solution because it allows for quick file storage and retrieval, sharing, and, most significantly, data security.
Monitor All File-Sharing Operations
The IT department should monitor all file-sharing operations at all organizational levels. They should keep a close eye on all activities to determine any bizarre behavior or security breaches that may result in data loss.
Permission To Share Files
Permissions to share files is an ideal security strategy to provide access only to those who need the file. It can be challenging in a fast-paced work environment but significant when dealing with sensitive information.
For many businesses, file sharing has become a necessity. These files must be transferred securely and quickly to encourage collaboration and boost productivity. However, only a flexible file transfer environment that allows you to handle any protocol from one place can sustain this development.
We cannot ignore the file-sharing threats companies face whenever they exchange data. Therefore, it is essential to put in place the best practices for file sharing and audit them regularly to ensure compliance.
