Businesses need to transfer large files over computers and networks for many reasons. Some include expansion, mergers, new business ownership, and cyberattack recovery. If you need to synchronize large files for your business, check the different methods below to help you get started.
1. Use A Command Line Tool
Robust File Copy or Robocopy can be used to sync large files between computers. But this command line tool is primarily for simple one-way sync jobs. In addition, information technology (IT) experts or those with a background in programming can only excellently perform Robocopy file transfers. Hence, this file transfer solution isn’t recommended for novice users.
If you plan to sync large files with Robocopy, prepare to face complex programming management and sync set-ups. This approach generally involves using commands, wherein some of them can reduce replication performance. This issue can cause delays in synchronizing large files over different networks.
In addition, Robocopy file transfer is sequential. Once you have coded all the applicable commands, the large files sync from one computer, wait for it to finish, and proceed to the next computer. However, this process can be slow and unreliable.
2. Use A Cloud-Based P2P File Sync Solution
While you only need a simple large file transfer, your business will eventually need a more scalable, reliable, and fast file synchronization solution as it grows. That said, choosing a proprietary peer-to-peer file (P2P) synchronization tool suitable for your devices’ operating systems can be a good option. But how does how this type of file transfer tool works?
This cloud sync solution transfers files and data quickly and securely between on-premises file shares and object storage. It can perform real-time replication. Therefore, it only replicates recent changes and not the entire file. You also gain peace of mind because there’s no point in system failure. When one computer fails, the others aren’t affected, which means you can retrieve your business files quickly.
3. Use A Virtual Private Network
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) protects your digital data by directing your web connection via a server. Many businesses use this service to protect themselves from ads and hackers. For this reason, VPN file transfer can be suitable for remote businesses.
By using a VPN, your internet traffic is sent to a different server instead of directly to your internet service provider (ISP). This way, your ISP won’t recognize that you’re transferring large files. Your ISP can’t moderate your internet bandwidth, allowing you to send large files over different networks.
However, using VPN to send large files can make your connection sluggish, affecting your business operations. There’s also no assurance that your files are complete after the transfer.
4. Use Secure File Transfer Protocol
Another way to share files over the internet is using File Transfer Protocol (FTP). It involves transferring, downloading, and uploading files online to the business’s hosting server. However, one significant downside of this approach is it isn’t secure enough. That’s why using a secure file transfer protocol (STFP) with encryption is best, restricting access to unauthorized users. SFTP is a more secure way to transfer critical and confidential files to team members and clients.
5. Use A File Compression Software Program
File compression is a convenient method to store and send multiple files. Such tools or programs compress large files and reduce their size, making them more manageable for sharing. The file format changes during compression, rendering them non-modifiable. But you can decompress the file to obtain the original file quickly.
The two types of file compression are lossless and lossy. In lossless file compression, the file size decreases, and redundant data is removed without significant loss. On the other hand, lossy file compression involves some data losses but is usually unnoticed because they come in bits.
6. Use An External Drive
One of the most straightforward ways to transfer large data between computers over different networks is using a USB flash drive or external drive. Copy large files to the external drive and plug them into the other computer. It’s the fastest and most effective large file sync option. Furthermore, this file transfer method doesn’t require internet connectivity or extra software programs.
Small businesses can use this quick file transfer option. But this option carries a high risk of data leaks and losses, especially when the external drive reaches the wrong hands.
Wrapping Up
Businesses can sync large files over different computers and networks using different methods. But considering you’ll be handling sensitive business data, you should consider sync options that promise reliability, scalability, security, and agility.
This article has outlined tips you can take note of as a good start. But when looking for tools and software, check your options’ features, pricing, and customer support. That way, you can choose what’s best for your business. You can also talk to a sync software provider to get expert advice.
