Guide to Cloud SFTP for Business

Cloud computing is utilizing a global infrastructure of servers and data centers — sharing infrastructure resources for storing and accessing data online. Here’s a look at how businesses use the cloud and SFTP to securely manage file transfer.

What Is the Cloud?

Just like a real cloud, the “cloud” in regards to computers can be a little hard to grasp. 

You use the cloud any time you are putting information or data online, or share data via an internet connection.

Cloud = computing on the internet. 

That’s the stripped down answer.

How Businesses Use the Cloud

Businesses and individuals use computers and servers daily to move information. Sharing resources like servers can improve the performance of your online interactions. Files and other business documents often need to be accessible to employees, satellite locations, vendors, and customers. The cloud makes it convenient for businesses to share those files no matter where individuals are located.

Businesses Also Use SFTP

Many businesses rely on SFTP to securely transfer large files. SFTP is based on a client and server relationship. Uploading files via SFTP sends those files to a physical FTP server. These servers are hosted behind a firewall. Usually in a secure data center with physical security measures. With your files securely stored on a hosted SFTP server, it’s like your own “private SFTP cloud.”

Download our Cloud SFTP Infographic

Cloud SFTP is the Best of Both Worlds

Cloud SFTP offers the reliability of fast SFTP transfers and secure file storage on an FTP server. You also get the modern benefits of web-based file management. Plus remote file access via any web browser on your computer or mobile device. 

Access Your Files in the Cloud via an SFTP Site

SFTP Site is another term you’ll see. Especially for access to files stored on an FTP server. The SFTP site gives you access to your files stored on the server via a web browser. Large files can be an issue when solely relying on cloud file sharing options. Today it is common to use SFTP to upload and transfer all of your big files while managing and tracking those transfers with the cloud tools and web resources. 

Cloud SFTP becomes your all-in-one file sharing solution. 

Cloud SFTP & Security

Traditional FTP can have security drawbacks. Using SFTP adds layers of encryption to enhance your data security during file transfer. Here are additional security options:

1. Passwords

Everyone is familiar with passwords. You can’t sign on anywhere without having or creating a password. Enforce complex passwords for your file shares and SFTP transfers for added data security. 

2. Secure hosted SFTP server

Using a file sharing service with a secure hosted SFTP server takes the IT hassles and server maintenance out of your hands. Hosted SFTP is similar to the cloud, but connects you to a dedicated server or servers to securely store your data.

3. Enterprise-grade security

Look for services that offer enterprise grade security. Beyond a secure data center or server, this type of architecture provides multiple levels of security. From the physical infrastructure that stores your data to audit and control so you can track activity on your account. 

4. HTTPS

Hypertext Transfer Protocol “Secure” is how a web browser communicates with a website. If you are sharing files online, this protocol checks the website’s security certificate. HTTPS prevents your activity on that site from being monitored beyond the fact that you visited and for how long. 

5. Web file management

A well-designed web file manager allows you to manage all of your files and folders in one place. Online access means you can monitor your file sharing account from any device, any time. Along with passwords and other security features, web file management is the perfect example of Cloud SFTP meeting today’s file sharing demands.

How Will You Use Cloud SFTP?

There are two ways to look at this type of file sharing solution. From the Cloud perspective or from the SFTP perspective. 

1. Cloud file sharing with SFTP access.

Use the internet to send and share files with your coworkers, business associates, clients and others. Check upload status, file size, and receive notifications. All easily accessible online including large files uploaded via SFTP.

2. Hosted SFTP service with web access.

Secure FTP server stores your files. Use SFTP to upload and transfer files and large documents. A web based file manager lets you view all of your stored files, manage transfers, and directly share files with anyone. 

Security, reliability, and all the modern features. Cloud SFTP lets you upload and share files in the way that is best for your business. 

Get started with ExaVault Cloud SFTP and Set up your SFTP site today!