11/ 30/ 2007
Send Big Files Fast
Large attachments (over 5MB) have a way of being bounced off e-mail filters of firewall-protected networks. For the tech-savvy, this has never been a problem. Before they were selling Pez dispensers on eBay, early Net users were transferring files via file transfer protocol, or FTP. But using FTP seems way too geeky for those who've only recently mastered the skill of attaching a file to an e-mail. So, how do you send a big file if you can't e-mail it?
No, you won't need a blank CD. In fact, you're probably already paying for a solution that is part of your current Internet access plan. Check with your provider for instructions on how to access file-transfer, storage and sharing services. Unfortunately, such features of small-business Internet service plans can often be confusing, especially for those who don't use them regularly.
For that reason, many new services and solutions have sprung up that make transferring files as simple—and inexpensive—as dragging and dropping files on your computer desktop. Rather than attach a file to an e-mail, you simply upload (or drag and drop) a file to the service and then instruct it to notify your recipients--via e-mail or text message--that the file is available for access.
Typically, such file-transfer services offer a free entry-level account that allows a user to transfer a limited number of files per month and to store 1GB (or more) of digital files. For additional fees, you get more storage, more transfers—and more security, including file encryption.
A word of caution: You don't want to send files over an open or untrusted network—or your information could be available to hackers. So do your research. Make sure the file transfer service you choose is reputable, and splurge for the secure connection if it's not offered to basic users.
Send It On
These are just a few file-transfer services that work well for small businesses:
- Box.net
- DropSend.com
- MediaMax.com
- SendThisFile.com
- Xdrive.com
- YouSendIt.com
