B2B FILE TRANSFER
B2B (Business-to-Business) File Transfer
B2B (“business to business”) is a market definition (a “space”) that covers technology and services that allow file and other transmissions to be performed between businesses (i.e., not between consumers). File transfer solutions allow you to transfer data securely between two or more locations, connected via a network. Business-to-business file transfer is at the core of many business operations. Running this reduces the risk of data breaches, data loss or theft, or human error. It is such an important step in making sure your organisation complies with the new regulations, such as General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).Getting the correct file transfer solution into your organisation is a powerful business enabler. It reduces costs and risk, whilst improving efficiency and agility by having up-to-date software systems.
Within the business setting, file transfer is used by a range of roles, including Head of IT, Compliance Managers, Operations Managers, and Senior Leadership Teams. File transfer projects can range in size and complexity, and in any business, this is critical to have. When working with SME or Enterprise Levels there is a greater risk to the security of the information and data. If you need help finding the right solution for your business, take our file transfer comparison quiz and our technical experts will find your perfect match.
What are popular File Sharing Tools and Software?
Particularly post-pandemic, working from home has become a thing of the norm. File sharing tools and software for many businesses allow the day-to-day running of business operations to carry on as normal.With a flurry of file transfers there is need to mitigate error and risk as well as ensure these transfer are secure, encrypted and compliant. There are many popular file sharing platforms and tools including: Google Drive, Dropbox, WeTransfer, Send Anywhereand One Drive.
There are other tools such as HighTail, Slack and Monday.com. However, these may be classed and labelled as collaboration platforms or productivity software but also allow secure file sharing.
Why should businesses use MFT instead of Dropbox?
When choosing professional business file sharing software, it’s important to investigate and question the risks that are involved with each solution.
Dropbox is one of the most popular file sharing solutions on the market with many consumers using it. It does offer professional, low-cost options and packages for businesses. However, the old adage of you get what you pay for does come to mind, especially when the risks are highlighted. For example, in the past Dropbox has been known to accidentally delete files but they do guarantee keeping files for 180 days. However, this raises an issue with a lack of control when using Dropbox. For many businesses they need to be able to control how long files are stored for and when they are deleted otherwise this can give rise to compliance and security concerns.
It's important for Businesses, especially those dealing with sensitive data to asses the potential cybersecurity risks would pose. For example, Dropbox “… cannot differentiate between ransomware encrypted files and regular files. It may also sync other malware infected folders and data to the server.” (source: https://www.malwarefox.com/dropbox-safety/)
Managed File Transfer software is a solution that is designed for businesses and has evolved over time as well as being known within the data transfer market for being a more versatile, secure and robust solution. Low-cost file sharing services such as Dropbox can be ideal for some businesses but where data security, compliance and control are paramount it may be worth exploring MFT Software vendors as a fit-for-purpose solution.
Enterprise File Transfer vs Enterprise File Sharing
Enterprise File Transfer, and Enterprise File Sharing are two types of solutions that enable businesses to transfer files securely to multiple locations and devices. Both can both be deployed either on-premises or in a cloud environment, leading to some overlap in their functionalities. So, what’s the difference between Enterprise File Transfer and Enterprise File Sharing?
Enterprise File Transfer, often referred to as Managed File Transfer (MFT), is somewhat defined by its automated workflow capabilities, sometimes referred to as a machine-to-machine file transfer. However, MFT solutions have implemented Enterprise File Sync and Share (EFSS) type capabilities to suit the need of person-to-person and machine-to-person use cases too.
MFT does offer certain capabilities such synchronisation and large file sharing via email, but this is where comparisons with EFSS end. Unlike EFSS, MFT is not interested in the content of files – unless it aids in the correct routing to a destination - nor the intention of their creation. It is for these reasons that much of the security in MFT begins and ends with encrypting the channel of transfer and the medium of storage with secure file transfer protocols including FTP, HTPPS, and AS2.
On the other hand, Enterprise File Sharing (often referred to as Enterprise File Sync and Share solutions) are designed to enable businesses to securely synchronise, collaborate and share documents, photos, videos, and files from multiple devices, with a mixture of recipient types.
For the most part, EFSS has found its audience through the need to share and collaborate data and files. In today’s world, there’s almost no business which does not interact with customers, suppliers, subsidiaries, and other third-parties through the sharing of data and files. However, with much of the data and file content between businesses being of a sensitive nature, regulatory compliance, the challenge posed by shadow IT and the threat of reputational damage in the event of a breach are of equal importance. If you would like to take a deeper dive into EFSS, download our comprehensive EFSS guide today.
