4 January, 2024

In an era where digital collaboration is the norm, small businesses must prioritize secure file sharing to protect sensitive information and maintain the confidentiality of their data. With an abundance of file sharing tools available, selecting the right one for your small business can be a daunting task.

To help you navigate through the options, we've compiled a list of the top 10 secure file sharing tools tailored for small businesses.

top 10 tools for secure file sharing

#1 Microsoft OneDrive

Microsoft OneDrive offers seamless integration with Microsoft 365, providing small businesses with a secure cloud storage solution. It features advanced security measures such as encryption, multi-factor authentication, and ransomware detection, ensuring the safety of your files.

#2 Google Drive

Google Drive is a versatile and user-friendly file sharing tool that is well-suited for small businesses. With its robust security features, including two-factor authentication and file encryption, Google Drive provides a reliable and accessible platform for collaborative work.

#3 Dropbox Business

Dropbox Business is designed for team collaboration and offers advanced security features such as data encryption, remote wipe, and granular access controls. It also integrates seamlessly with various third-party applications, enhancing its versatility for small business needs.

#4 Box

Box is a secure file sharing platform that prioritizes collaboration and compliance. With features like granular access controls, data retention policies, and secure file preview, Box is an excellent choice for small businesses that require strict regulatory compliance.

#5 Tresorit

Tresorit focuses on end-to-end encryption, providing a zero-knowledge platform where only users with the encryption key can access files. This makes it an ideal choice for businesses handling sensitive and confidential information.

#6 ShareFile by Citrix

ShareFile by Citrix combines file sharing with secure document collaboration. It includes features like custom branding, e-signatures, and multi-factor authentication, making it a comprehensive solution for small businesses with diverse collaboration needs.

#7 SharePoint

SharePoint is part of the Microsoft 365 suite and offers a secure platform for file sharing and collaboration within an organization. It provides advanced security features like Information Rights Management (IRM) and data loss prevention, ensuring sensitive data remains protected.

#8 Sync.com

Sync.com emphasizes privacy and security, offering end-to-end encryption and zero-knowledge architecture. Small businesses can benefit from its user-friendly interface and secure file sharing capabilities, with the added assurance of client-side encryption.

#9 Collabloop

Collabloop is a cloud-based document management tool specifically designed for the collaborative process of "redlining" documents in an ultra-secure environment. Perfectly suited for the iterative processes involved in developing contracts and other legal agreements, Collabloop has many features that not only secure work-in-progress documents but also streamlines the redlining process. When you're not just sharing documents but actively collaborating on them, Collabloop is an excellent choice.

#10 Virtual Data Rooms

secure file sharing tools

Depending on the sensitivity of the files you're sharing, you might want to consider upgrading your file sharing platform to a virtual data room. Virtual Data Rooms (VDRs) stand out as a more secure alternative for file sharing compared to consumer-grade platforms such as Box and Dropbox. VDRs are specifically designed to cater to the heightened security needs of businesses, especially in industries where confidentiality is paramount, such as legal, financial, and healthcare sectors.

Unlike generic file-sharing services, VDRs implement advanced encryption protocols, multi-factor authentication, and granular access controls, ensuring that sensitive data remains protected from unauthorized access. Additionally, VDRs often provide features like dynamic watermarking, document expiration, and detailed audit trails, allowing administrators to monitor and manage access with precision.

How do you ensure that shared files are secure?

secure shared files

8 Tips for Secure File Sharing

  1. Use end-to-end encryption
  2. Choose a privacy-focused provider
  3. Use strong passwords
  4. Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA)
  5. Password protect files
  6. Set sharing time limits
  7. Monitor file access
  8. Use a VPN on public WiFi

These security measures surpass the standard offerings of consumer-grade platforms, which may lack the robust protections necessary for safeguarding critical business information. As a result, businesses that prioritize data security and compliance find VDRs to be a more reliable and comprehensive solution for their file-sharing needs.

Selecting a secure file sharing tool is crucial for the success and confidentiality of small businesses. The tools mentioned above offer a range of features to meet the diverse needs of small businesses while prioritizing security. By carefully considering your specific requirements and preferences, you can choose the tool that best aligns with your business objectives and ensures the protection of sensitive data.

ShareVault has been providing businesses of all types and sizes with secure document file sharing solutions for over 15 years.

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