Secure File Transfer via the Internet
Secure files transfer and file backup via Internet are complicated tasks. When you transfer file ‘as is’ (without security) it may be intercepted by strangers. How to protect your data from unauthorized access?
Generally, information may be protected with powerful encryption algorithms. Nowadays there are several encryption methods developed which allow to hide your sensitive data from unauthorised access. Data encryption may be applied either to file itself or to date communication channel.
FILES ENCRYPTION
This method can be easily implemented. Various archive managers support encryption options. Additional advantage of this method is reduction of file size which decreases transfer time and releases disk space.
You can also use specialized software which ensures strong encryption. This software uses such encryption methods as AES, DES, BLOWFISH, etc. for professional protection of files.
It should be noted that security password used for files encryption must be long enough. Currently it is believed that 20 characters password is strong enough to resist bruteforce attacks. Also it is highly recommended to avoid usage in passwords of well-known words and phrases.
COMMUNICATION CHANNEL ENCRYPTION
Data transfer via the Internet is performed by means of special protocols: HTTP for web pages viewing, FTP for files transfer and SMTP for emails delivery. All these protocols do NOT use any encryption and transfer data (files, email, etc.) is unprotected from unauthorised access. Modifications of the above protocols - HTTPS, FTPS and SFTP, have been developed to ensure that data transfer is secure and safe.
Generally, the basic operating principles of HTTPS, FTPS and SFTP are the same. When communication channel is established between a sender and recipient all information which is transferred by the sender via this channel is encrypted. At the recipient’s side the information is decrypted automatically and becomes exactly the same as it was before sending. Only the intended recipient may decrypt such information.
Neither sender nor recipient shall undertake any additional steps to encrypt or decrypt the information - everything is performed ‘on the fly’.
SECURITY METHODS COMPARISON
| Files Encryption | Communication Channel Encryption | |
| Pre-transfer file preparation procedures | YES | NO |
| Shall be supported at recipient’s side | YES | YES |
| Encryption strength | Strong | Strong |
| Supported by AnyFileBackup | YES (File Encryption Extension) |
YES (Secure Protocol Extension) |
Security methods may vary and it is up to you to decide which fits best your purposes. The important thing is that it is absolutely necessary to protect data which you transfer via the Internet.
