The Difference Between FTP, FTPS, and SFTP

Let’s start with a fun fact: FTP has been around for nearly 50 years – and because of that, there are lots of flavors and variations of the protocol. There’s plain old FTP – File Transfer Protocol – but there’s also FTPS, FTP-SSL, and SFTP. Many people ask: How do they differ?

At a basic level, FTP is a protocol that has one server and many clients that connect to the server in order to transfer files from one system to another. The client(s) then log into the server to execute commands. Commands allow you to move around the file tree, download files, upload files, move directories, delete, and much more. In the early days of the ARPAnet / Internet, this was revolutionary because you could take files and move them over great physical distances – even large files. FTP is not complicated, but it’s exceedingly powerful and has stood the test of time.

The first FTP client applications were command-line programs developed before computers had graphical user interfaces. Such applications are still shipped with Windows, Linux, and Unix-based operating systems today.

FTP helps send files by transmitting information quickly and reliably so you can transfer large files online. File transfer protocol is commonly used for transferring large files between a client and a server. You can use FTP to exchange files between computer accounts, transfer files between an account and a desktop computer or access files in online storage.

As great as FTP was at the time, it lacked security measures to encrypt usernames and passwords or other data going across the protocol. Thus FTPS and SFTP were made to build security measures directly into the protocol.

Decades later, we have services like Dropbox or Box that use their own protocols to move files around on the internet. You may ask yourself – why not just abandon FTP entirely and let companies use their own protocols? Here are a few reasons:

The backbone of the internet runs on standard protocols, like HTTP, FTP, DHCP, DNS, etc. Using a standard protocol is in line with the goals of a free and open internet.

It gives you flexibility in your toolset. Because of how long FTP has been around, there are tons of tools, scripts and daemons made that work with it.

Many devices already have FTP built into them, such as security cameras. Let’s say you develop a new security camera and want it to connect to a closed protocol, like Dropbox. With FTP, you can make the connection. With a closed protocol, however, you would have to contact Dropbox and pay licensing fees for using their protocol.

Every client machine already supports file transfer protocol! You don’t need to download a client to access FTP functions from the command line – you can even use whatever client you want to interface with FTP!

FTPS, also known as FTP-SSL, is a more secure form of FTP. FTPS is basic FTP with security added to commands and data transfer. Special security protocols TLS (Transport Layer Security) and SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) are cryptographic and provide encryption of data to protect your information as it moves from point A to point B, including username/password.

FTPS is to FTP much like HTTPS is to HTTP: an added layer of security while keeping the original protocol relatively unchanged.

SFTP, also known as SSH FTP, encrypts both commands and data while in transmission. This means all your data and credentials are encrypted as they pass through the internet. If you’ve ever used a Unix-based system, you’re likely familiar with SSH. It’s a protocol that allows you to remotely connect to other systems and execute commands from the command line. SSH is how most servers in the world are administered, so the protocol had to be very secure. SFTP was created as an extension of SSH to transfer files through the secure channel (SSH).

Unlike FTP and FTPS, SFTP protocol is packet-based as opposed to text-based. This makes file and data transfers using the SFTP faster than other secure FTP connections.

What are the differences between these protocols?

Learning about the different protocols might seem daunting. We’ve compiled a shortlist of the differences — advantages and disadvantages that can help clarify which protocol would be best for your use.

In our opinion, if you are able to use SFTP – use it. FTP is great for legacy devices that don’t support any sort of encryption, but if you have access to encryption, it’s better to use SFTP. You don’t want your files intercepted by a malicious hacker downstream of your machine if you can help it.

Both SFTP and FTPS provide a high level of protection. The biggest difference between these two protocols is how connections are authenticated and managed. 

SFTP connections can be authenticated using a user id and password to connect to the server. SSH keys can also be used to authenticate SFTP connections. You will need to generate an SSH private key and public key to connect with the SFTP server. 

With FTPS the usernames and passwords are also encrypted. To connect, your FTPS client will first check if the server’s certificate is trusted. The certificate is considered trusted if either the certificate was signed off by a known certificate authority (CA), like Verisign, or if the certificate was self-signed (by your partner) and you have a copy of their public certificate in your trusted key store.

Which File Transfer Protocol Should I Use?

When choosing an advanced file transfer protocol, the decision often depends on your needs:

FTP is ideal for legacy systems that lack encryption capabilities.

FTPS works well if your infrastructure supports SSL/TLS and you require robust encryption.

SFTP is the best choice for modern systems, offering secure, efficient, and feature-rich file transfers.

Advanced File Transfer in the Modern World

In today’s world of SaaS, cloud computing, and e-commerce, understanding secure file transfer options is crucial. While SFTP and FTPS excel in protecting sensitive data, FTP remains indispensable for its speed, simplicity, and compatibility with legacy systems.

From small file transfers to mission-critical operations, advanced file transfer protocols continue to power the digital world.

Get the best (S)FTP + Modern feature sets  – Sign up for ExaVault today!

File Transfer Protocol has been around for a long time. But there's also FTPS, FTP-SSL, and SFTP. How do they differ and which one should you use?

The Difference Between FTP, FTPS, and SFTP | ExaVault Blog

File Transfer Protocol has been around for a long time. But there's also FTPS, FTP-SSL, and SFTP.

FTP not only transfers files from one system to another. With FTP, you also get a form of data management. Get started with our FTP commands list.

Download & share our pocket reference FTP Commands List.
Available Here >> essential_ftp_commands_list

FTP Commands for More than Just File Transfer

Use FTP commands to manage data by locating files, deleting unneeded documents, and transferring data to clients and business associates at remote locations. Manage files individually, or use file transfer protocol to move multiple files between your computer and an FTP server.

To get you started with file transfer protocol, here is a list of the most common FTP commands and their basic descriptions. This chart makes a great cheat sheet for new programmers or a handy reference for pros who are juggling a lot of technical information.

These FTP commands, while common for the basic FTP functions, are based on running a PC with Windows. Once you have all the basic FTP commands down, additional commands can be found in the help screen and used to request more complex functions. These commands may differ slightly depending on your system.

You can also use commands to manage and transfer data via SFTP. Many people prefer to use SFTP because it is a natively secure protocol. While SFTP is often used as a secure replacement for FTP, you may think the same commands would work for both.

However, SFTP is a completely separate protocol from FTP. And because it is a separate protocol, there are some differences in the commands you use to perform actions.

Based on the list above, there are only a few differences to note if you are using SFTP. The following FTP commands do NOT work for SFTP connections:

If you want to delete a file with SFTP you use the command rm instead of delete.

You’ve got the commands, now it’s time to start using FTP. Sign up for Exavault today!

Getting started with file transfer protocol is simple when you have an FTP commands list. Download our Essential FTP Commands reference card today.

Essential FTP Commands List | ExaVault Blog

Download our Essential FTP Commands reference card today and become an FTP wizard in no time.

Tackling File Transfer with Customers in 2022

Today, more companies are operating and working remotely than ever before. Potential customers can be anywhere around the world, accessing your website 24/7. And you need a way to send and receive business files in a secure and timely manner.

From online orders to client documents, proposals, submissions, and general file transfer with customers — these routine data transfers keep a business running.

Do you need to send files to customers? Receive files from clients? Have files available for clients to access as needed?

Sharing links that grant clients access to a specific file or folder is one option. Using a share link lets you set up any documents to be shared, allowing the customer access them when they have time.

Perhaps you want to create a user login for clients you work with regularly so they can access files you have stored, during their business hours. Business can continue across multiple time zones without having to coordinate meetings or be present for document handoffs.

Or, you may want to embed forms directly on your website to receive files from customers. Keep your business open and receive orders and other submissions from clients anytime.

You can execute all of these with the right file transfer service. Now, let’s look at how you can execute file transfer with customers using a service such as ExaVault.

Sending files to someone is a common type of file transfer between businesses and customers. Customers may need receipts for purchases, documents to sign, or reports to review and approve. File sharing lets you send relevant documents to clients no matter where they are, including halfway across the globe or three blocks away.

There are a variety of ways for a business to share files. With ExaVault, you can send files directly from the file manager. Choose the files you want to share, enter the recipient’s email address, and send.

Email is a great way to communicate with business associates. Plus it provides you with the client’s email address for future interactions. Quickly locate and select the file or files you want to send. Then have them sent to any recipient via email. The email includes a link that will allow your clients access and take them directly to the shared file or folder. You send the file when you have time, and the client can review the document at their leisure.

Another option is to get a unique share link for the file or folder you want to share. Then, simply copy and pass along the link. Send the link to your customers via chat, email, text, or however you communicate.

Additional options to customize how the file is shared are available.  Add a custom message to the email. Set access controls for your share links, like password protection, expiration or maximum uses.

Many businesses require the ability to receive files from customers, even when it is not during their business hours. Some enterprises operate 24/7 in various locations around the globe. The ability to receive files directly into your account makes this part of file transfer with customers so much easier. 

One way to receive files from customers is by setting up a receive folder in your ExaVault account. Find or create the folder you want to receive files into. This will bring up the menu to customize the receive folder. Once you have chosen the settings you want – from requiring a password  or registration to setting an expiration date if desired – you can invite others to upload files directly to your account. 

There are many types of files you may need to share with clients besides just a paid in full receipt.

Receive signed contracts or business agreements.

Receive images needed for putting together a quote for design work.

Send an invoice to customers so you get paid.

Send diagrams or other mockups for remodeling projects.

Receive submissions to a contest your company is sponsoring.

Send requests on company letterhead as documented proof.

Send terms and conditions for work to be done.

No matter what types of files you need to share, the right solution can provide options for file transfer with customers that fit your business needs and enhance workflows in both directions.

Get secure file transfer for your business!

Send and receive documents required to conduct your business. Find out how you can manage file transfer with customers to share the information you need.

Tackling File Transfer with Customers in 2022 | ExaVault Blog

Find out how you can manage file transfer with customers to share the information you need.

How to Access an FTP Server from the Browser

FTP sites have been around long before "the cloud," and Dropbox became household terms. FTP stands for "File Transfer Protocol," which is a long-established way that permits file transfers over the Internet. Many giant organizations such as Microsoft and the Internal Revenue Service use FTP sites to distribute software, documents, and other files.

An FTP server stores files, and software known as an FTP client is utilized to connect to the server to upload or download files. There are stand-alone FTP clients written explicitly for this purpose, or FTP may be packed into another piece of software, like a web-editing tool, which utilizes FTP to transfer files to the webserver. A web browser can additionally serve as an FTP client.

One of the easiest ways to download files from an FTP site is using your web browser. While most people today use Chrome, Edge, or Firefox, your version of these browsers may not offer out of the box support for FTP. In the case that FTP is not fully supported, a little research can be done to make your browser support FTP in the browser itself. 

Start by reading more below about different connection types for FTP access in your browser. You will require an FTP client application to upload files. In many circumstances, you can access an FTP site without any special permission; however, sometimes, you require a username and password. 

Then, depending on your browser, learn more about enabling access to FTP sites via a web browser to get started!

Every organization decides how they wish users to connect to their FTP server. There are three primary ways:

This is the easiest connection technique. You do not have to include any user information. One well-known example is Adobe. Here you can download various versions of some of the free popular applications.

Username required – in this example, the organization needs you to have an account to access the site. Schools generally use this type of access.

Username + password – this is the most restrictive since users are required to have an account and password to access the site. Several companies use this technique for individuals to upload large files to the server.

Despite your connection type, you can use your web browser to gain access in most situations. There are some cases where organizations disable browser access. For example, the web hosting company we use does not allow FTP connections utilizing a browser.

Many public FTP sites do not want you to have an account and instead allow you to log in anonymously. In most cases, it won't be necessary to log in at all, while in others, you need to enter "anonymous" as your username and your email address as your password to connect to FTP. If the FTP site is restricted, which is often the case with commercial or university sites, you will be asked to fill in the administrator's username and password.

If you want to transfer (upload, download, or modify) files between your computer and a secure FTP Server, you just need to enter the username and password to access its contents. It is recommended to utilize one of the below-listed solutions:

Use an FTP Client program (such as the WinSCP or the FileZilla Client or use the FireFTP plugin for Firebox browser) to connect to the FTP Server.

Add the FTP Network location to your Windows Explorer.

Map or assign a drive letter to the FTP Shared folder in Windows Explorer for easiest access.

In this tutorial, you will learn how to access an FTP server using your Web Browser.

One of the simplest ways to connect to an FTP site is with your Web browser. 

Prior to connecting to an FTP server, you should know its hostname (or its IP address or URL) and, obviously, the necessary security credentials to gain access to the shared FTP contents.

To access an FTP Server utilizing your Web browser (Firefox, Internet Explorer, Chrome, etc.):

You need to open your Internet browser and start typing the FTP Server's Hostname (or IP Address) and the FTP port number (in case the FTP Server is utilizing a separate port than the actual default port "21" for the FTP connections) in the address box and press Enter.

Understand the Different Parts of an FTP Address

Once you come across FTP addresses on a webpage, they are generally displayed in the same way as a standard webpage address—with few exceptions:

For instance, you may see ftp.example.com:21. This simply denotes that the address is ftp.example.com, and the port utilized is 21. You will require both when connecting to the FTP server.

If the FTP needs a username, it can be written as username@ftp.example.com:21, where "username" is the necessary name.

If no username is given, then you will typically need to enter "anonymous" as the username when you connect. Understand that you are not truly anonymous when you connect to a public FTP. The host can notice your IP address.

If the hostname of the FTP Server is: ftp.example.com and the listening port for the FTP connections is the actual default port (21), then you need to fill in the address as:

FTP Connection Needs Username and Password

Other organizations offer FTP access; however, they require the user to authenticate by giving a username and often a password. Usually, the files are not for public distribution but for specific purposes. For instance, you want to submit your customer address list to a mailing house. In this case, neither organization would wish the public to access those files.

There are many ways to do these types of FTP connections with your browser. One of the easiest ways is to start the connection just like you did for an anonymous FTP connection.

A password dialog box will appear like the one shown below. You need to enter your username and password if required.

Filling the User Information in the Address Bar

There are additionally some ways to avoid the browser dialog that asks for the Username and Password. While this might save you a step, it can often lead you to make mistakes.

Another issue is that some content management systems keep adding additional spaces and creating hyperlinks from these instance command lines. Remember, there should be NO spaces.

To connect to an FTP server needs a username with Firefox:

In the locator bar, you need to fill ftp://username:password@ftp.xyz.com

If your username was jess12 and password was bosox67, the FTP browser syntax should be:
ftp://jess12:bosox67@ftp.xyz.com

In this scenario, the username contains a domain name such as jess12@xyz.com. Then, you would type:
ftp://jess12@xyz.com:bosox67@ftp.xyz.com

Now, to connect to an FTP server with a username using IE:

You need to type the FTP address in the address bar, such as ftp://ftp.xyz.com.

If any error dialogs appear, then dismiss them.

You will need to enter your username and password in the "Log On As" box.

If you plan to connect to FTP servers regularly, make sure you get a good FTP client. This makes the task of uploading or moving files much easier and simpler than a web browser. For the occasional FTP connection, your web browser will work in the right way. Be extra careful while accessing FTP sites if you are not familiar with the domain. Just because you can get access does not mean the content is safe. 

Next, you need to enable the option to support FTP URLs.


You need to enter the FTP site in the URL field, i.e., ftp://ftp.mccdaq.com/downloads/.

If your computer can't connect to that server, then either your FTP software is not working appropriately, or something on your computer (such as a firewall or other security software) is blocking all FTP connections. You might try utilizing other FTP software, such as the FileZilla client.

The FTP TCP port is usually set to 21 as a default. If you are having trouble connecting with FTP, your firewall may be blocking it. Don't forget to check your firewall's logs to understand if it has been blocking connections to or from the server IP you are attempting to connect to.

Why is my FTP site not working in Chrome?

FTP is generally disabled by default in Chrome 81. However, you can enable it utilizing the # enable-FTP flag. Now, you need to open Chrome and type "chrome://flags" in the address bar. Once in the area of the flag, type "enable-FTP" in the search bar stating, "search flags." Chrome will relaunch and start supporting FTP.

The existing FTP implementation in Google Chrome has no support for encrypted connections (FTPS) or proxies. The use of FTP in the browser is adequately low that it is no longer viable to improve the existing FTP client. Proxy support for FTP was eliminated entirely in Google Chrome 76.

How can I connect to an FTP server with an IP address and port?

Do you wonder how to access FTP using Windows Explorer? Open Windows Explorer. Right-click on a blank area and select Add network location. Now, click "Next" two times, and in the following screen, type the IP Address and the port number of your FTP Server. Uncheck the Log on as anonymous checkbox and then type your FTP username.

Downloading and uploading a file to/from an FTP server helps you navigate to the remote folder where the file you need to download is stored. Go to the local folder where you need to store the downloaded file, pick the file you need to download from the remote folder. Click the Download button. 

Do you need an FTP site to help facilitate FTP transfers for your business? ExaVault supports any FTP client and has an intuitive web-based interface for file and user management. Contact us to start your free trial today!

There are many ways to transfer files – file transfer protocol being one of them. Did you know you can access an FTP server from your browser? See how a web browser can serve as an FTP client.

How to Access an FTP Server from the Browser | ExaVault Blog

There are many ways to transfer files – FTP being one of them. See how a web browser can server as an FTP client.

Kimberfire’s Diamonds Shine on Schedule with Direct File Uploads and Automated Transfers

Kimberfire is a Toronto, Ontario-based jewelry store specializing in fine diamond jewelry. They are known for their expert personal service and are considered a better way to buy diamond engagement rings. 

Kimberfire was created to bridge the gap between the online and offline diamond jewelry experience.

When choosing Kimberfire, you get jewelry expertise, the finest craftsmanship, and incredible value. In 2020, they quickly adapted to Covid, implementing appropriate safety measures, including offering virtual appointments while maintaining the highest customer service and satisfaction. Now, as a virtual-first business, you can visit their website to browse diamond jewelry or set up a virtual appointment to select a diamond and design jewelry alongside an expert consultant. In person follow-up appointments are also available.

Needing a Way to Receive Critical Business Files via SFTP 

With direct access to wholesale diamonds through their suppliers, Kimberfire is uniquely set up to offer their customers a wide selection of brilliant stones. Being able to showcase available stones promptly and allowing clients to have the best selection of diamonds was a bit of a problem. 

They needed a way for their diamond suppliers to get new product specs to them quickly, securely, and with the ability to do so programmatically so new files would automatically forward to their final destination. This is a two-step process – receiving the CSV files from the suppliers and getting the files onto the Kimberfire server for final processing. 

The simplest way to transfer the original supplier files would be via SFTP, a secure SSH file transfer protocol. SFTP establishes a secure connection between the supplier’s computer and a server. Without access to a secure SFTP server, the supplier files take much longer to receive, making it more challenging to manage incoming files. Once files are uploaded to the secure server, Kimberfire could have the files forwarded to a location where their proprietary sales platform would take the product data and create listings for available stones for customers to choose from.

Without access to a server to accept SFTP transfers, manual workflows and file management required an excess of time between retrieving new stones from suppliers and making those stones available to customers. They began a search for a way to receive files via SFTP, and in 2016 Kimberfire started using the ExaVault platform. Offering a hosted SFTP solution, ExaVault fit their needs of a secure place to easily receive and manage files uploaded by their third-party suppliers. 

“ExaVault is definitely business critical for us!” 
~ Jonathan Goldberg, President & CEO, Kimberfire

From day one, with their ExaVault SFTP site, Kimberfire was able to receive and process their business-critical files. ExaVault’s user-friendly interface enabled both employees and vendors to onboard and start using the system to upload and share files with no formal training. The ease of use for vendors to share files ensured there was no disruption to their operations.  

One critical task done during the initial setup was to create a home folder for each of the account users based on the location of the diamond supplier. Utilizing the easy-to-set-up user permissions, Kimberfire provided users with a home folder that allows only authorized users to access specific folders. The home folder for a supplier’s location would be the server storage location that the supplier could access. The user would only be able to upload files to that specific location. 

Since Kimberfire only needed suppliers to submit their product CSV files, upload-only permissions could be set for the users. This type of permission setup would let suppliers upload their files without seeing any other files or subfolders. Permissions could also be set to allow or disallow actions such as download, modify, or delete files. 

Managing their workflow is no longer a hassle for Kimberfire or their vendors. Initial CSV files from suppliers get automatically uploaded to ExaVault via SFTP. SSH keys have been set up for each user to programmatically upload the files to the account via secure transfer and passwordless login. Setting up SSH keys allows the user’s system to directly connect with ExaVault and push files to their server.  

Kimberfire has also automated the next step. They use SCP to copy the files back over to their ingestion server on a schedule. SCP is the command-line utility Kimberfire uses to securely copy files from one location to another. This way, employees are not left with stale inventory. When they come to work, the files have been downloaded from the ExaVault server and the up to date inventory is ready to sell.

With ExaVault, Kimberfire has a solid and straightforward workflow in place that keeps their inventory updated and their business thriving. 

Step 1: Suppliers upload files to the designated folder via SFTP. 
Step 2: The files are downloaded via SCP. 
Step 3: Files are processed, and new product is made available to customers. 

If you are looking for a secure FTP/SFTP site for business-critical file transfer, ExaVault can help. We are a leading file transfer platform for businesses of all sizes with tools to help automate transfers, including a developer API, integrations, and more. Contact us to discuss your use case and find the plan perfect for your workflow. Reach out today and start your free trial >> 

Managing workflow is no longer a hassle for Kimberfire. CSV files from suppliers get automatically uploaded to ExaVault via SFTP. File transfer success story >>

Kimberfire’s Diamonds Shine on Schedule with Direct File Uploads and Automated Transfers | ExaVault Blog

Managing workflow is no longer a hassle for Kimberfire.

Dear Customers, Partners, Friends and Family:

I have some exciting news to share today. We’re merging with Files.com to create the world’s largest company focused exclusively on Managed File Transfer.

If you don’t know Files.com, you’ll find a very similar file transfer platform to ours – only with many more capabilities and it works with the cloud. Among other things, Files.com has global data storage options, significantly more granular security and permissions, syncing capability with other cloud platforms, and out-of-the-box SOC-2 compliance.

We’re merging our platforms and our teams, and are excited to be able to bring you an even more powerful offering in the short term.

Our entire workforce has joined the Files.com team and three members of ExaVault’s leadership have joined the Files.com executive leadership team. ExaVault CEO, David Ordal, is now the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of the combined Files.com/ExaVault business, which will have an annual R&D budget 5x higher than the previous ExaVault R&D budget.

I am excited to join an industry leader like Files.com, who has a proven reputation of supporting customers through powerful solutions and exceptional service. Files.com’s mission and approach mirror how we think and operate.

ExaVault’s Elizabeth Langill is now the head of Customer Support for the combined business. The Sales and Customer Support team of the new combined business is 7x larger than the previous ExaVault team.

Together, our combined company has more than 60 people, including an engineering team 3X larger than ExaVault’s, and so I’m excited to be able to innovate that much faster.

We’ll continue to run a standalone ExaVault platform, however, we will be singularly focused on making ExaVault a free on-premises file transfer appliance that surpasses all the current solutions in the marketplace.

Every ExaVault customer will get the following additional capabilities and benefits included with their subscription:

Web hosting, share links, inboxes, and inbound and outbound FTP, SFTP, and WebDAV

Secure HTTPS (modern ciphers, HSTS, HPKP, session IP pinning)

Assign basic user/group permissions on a per-folder basis

The Files.com platform also offers powerful premium features and capabilities, available for an additional cost, including:

Full custom domains, with custom SSL certificates and dedicated IP address

Real-time and scheduled sync integrations with 3rd party storage services such as Amazon S3, Azure, Google Cloud, SharePoint, Box, Dropbox, and more.

Bi-directional FTP/SFTP, meaning Files.com can act as an FTP/SFTP client in addition to a server, enabling complex workflows.

Advanced Automation and Workflows, including bi-directional webhooks, GPG Encryption/Decryption, Clickwraps, and Watermarking

Enterprise Single Sign On (SSO) supporting all major SSO providers

As we begin this new chapter, I want to thank our team, customers, friends, partners and family for their support.

I started this business more than a decade ago, and more than a dozen customers from our first year are still with us today. We had little more than a single FTP server back then, with a Java applet for the ‘web’ interface. Today, it’s a fully distributed, redundant platform that powers some of the world’s most critical business flows.

My team is what made that possible – from top notch engineering, to phenomenal customer success, marketing and operations. We have a 4.8 out of 5 rating on G2, among others, and it's all thanks to them.

Finally, I want to thank my wife, Katherine. We are celebrating our 15th wedding anniversary this year, and her support has never wavered.

The entire ExaVault team is looking forward to working with our new friends at Files.com, and to many more exciting years ahead. We’ve provided a short FAQ, below, to answer some of the most common questions about our merger. As always, please feel free to reach out to support@exavault.com if you have questions – faces both old and new are ready to answer.

I want one of those premium features! Can I upgrade to the Files.com platform today?

We are committed to ensuring that the platform upgrade platform process is smooth for every customer. We are opening access to the seamless automatic upgrade process on a rolling basis to ensure that we have the customer support resources to serve every customer.

Alternatively, customers may choose to perform a self-service upgrade by following our upgrade guide at any time. To learn more about this option, please contact us at support@exavault.com.

Will Feature X be available on the Files.com platform?

Basically… yes. While the Files.com platform already supports most of ExaVault’s capabilities, there are some things that we are bringing over from the ExaVault platform to the Files.com platform. While we anticipate that some features will work slightly differently around the edges, we’ll be providing training and documentation on the differences. Once you’ve migrated, you’ll also get all of the capabilities outlined above.

Will I be forced to upgrade to the Files.com platform?

The Files.com platform offers increased stability, uptime, capabilities, and support. It is also where all our R&D, innovation, and technical efforts are being directed.

We are committed to offering a smooth and automated migration process that avoids any impact or downtime to your business and file transfer operations. We will be working very closely with our larger and Enterprise customers to ensure a perfect and seamless migration process.

Is the ExaVault Platform still accepting signups?

The ExaVault platform is free to use now and forever. The paid tier offers some additional features, but many users find the free tier fulfills their needs. For enterprise users that need managed file transfer with cloud capabilities, we recommend upgrading to the Files.com platform. Read more information here.

ExaVault is merging with Files.com to create the world’s largest company focused exclusively on cloud native SaaS Managed File Transfer.

ExaVault is now part of Files.com Family | ExaVault News

We’re merging with Files.com to create the world’s largest company focused exclusively on Managed File Transfer.

Can I be Your Rubber Duck? Debugging Code With a Friend

Whether it’s an actual living human friend, a coworker, or a dog, or a bird, or an inanimate object imbued with friend status, having someone or something to explain your programming problem to can help you see the solution faster than you might think.

Rubber duck debugging is a problem-solving method used by software engineers and programmers to debug code. When you are staring at something like this all day, it can be easy to get caught up in what you are doing and miss an error.

While it might seem silly to have a little plastic duck sitting on your desk, silly things can serve a great purpose.

Rubber duck debugging is actually a reference to a story in the book The Pragmatic Programmer — a programmer has a literal rubber duck and debugs code by making himself talk to the duck and as he goes through his code line by line.

Today, rubber duck debugging is a widely accepted technique. There are even ducks you can buy in almost any color or theme from pink to one decorated as a pirate. As long as the duck or object is something you like, it should be easy to get out of a rut and see a different perspective when you start talking to your “duck.” The act of talking to a willing listener tends to slow down your thinking and provides the space for you to thoroughly explain the problem. Then your “aha!” moment will arrive — you have discovered the flaw.

While the case is strong that debugging code via the duck method will solve your problems, there are variations you can use to achieve the same results. In many work environments, coworkers take on the role of the rubber duck. For example, remote work teams and those who work from home get a mental shift from the act of contacting a coworker vs. talking to a rubber duck.

For ExaVault engineers, rubber duck debugging means hopping on a call with a coworker and describing the problem. This provides our engineers with an ear to listen as they talk it out and see the solution to their code issue.

While rubber duck debugging typically refers to hitting upon the solution without another person, someone who can audibly respond or breathe heavily over laptop speakers or headphones also does wonders. In debugging cases that are approaching a deadline, doing a screen share as you talk through code lets the other person see the code so they can play a more active role in spotting any errors.

When I say I need a rubber duck, it tells the team that I just need another ear on the line while I talk out my logic and work through some code. Someone volunteers, we jump on a call and inevitably see the solution within a few minutes.

No shame shall come from your coworker. It is better to discover a flaw such as operating on the wrong variable or a simple typo than to get complaints from clients once code is in production.

Rubber duck debugging - all you need is a duck, a friend, or a coworker to listen to your programming problem. Talking to debug code helps see the solution.

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