10 Best File Sharing Services: Which One Is The Best in 2024?

The COVID-19 pandemic taught us that it is not enough to have an on-premise intranet for documents and other digital assets. File sharing software solutions and other digital workspace products became even more essential in running an organization amidst a crippling pandemic.

However, not all file-sharing services are created equal. There are just those that are the cream of the crop. And, there are just those that fit your needs better.

In this article, our experts surveyed the market and compiled the 10 leading file-sharing systems based on features, price, security, support, and other essential factors. You will notice that the vendors often offer similar capabilities. The key is to find those little things that could prove crucial when you make your final decision.

When the pandemic hit, businesses shuffled to run on distributed teams. Naturally, that meant hooking business processes to the cloud, fast. Among other things, that meant running file and document sharing between employees on the cloud. This was the main reason for hastening digital transformation.

Even way before the pandemic started, however, many organizations deemed cloud-based applications to be the most efficient and cost-effective way to improve collaboration between various departments. And, collaboration is one of the primary drivers of adopting file sharing and similar technologies.

However, many professionals and organizations had and still have apprehensions about security. In fact, this is a pretty legitimate concern.

In the last six years, the average cost to a US business after a data breach has been increasing. In 2015, the average cost to a business was $6.53 million. Come 2020, the figure reached $8.64 million. This is 32.31% growth in just a little more than a decade. The most common forms of cyberattacks in 2019 included phishing and network intrusion.

Thus, when looking for a good file-sharing system, one must not only take a look at its operational features and its ease-of-use. Software hunters must also consider the safety and security standards such as encryption and permission features.

1. Encyro

Designed for SMBs and freelancers, Encyro offers robust features for safe file and data management. It provides multi-layer enterprise-grade encryption that ensures secure file transfer, organization, and backup.

Encyro’s 16 layers of security and automated encryption technology allow users to send and receive files and messages to any email address without the need for client portals and shared folders. With Encyro, users can create an upload page where files and messages can be uploaded without requiring senders to create an account and enter usernames and passwords. What’s more, users can customize the upload pages to add their branding.

Another thing worth noting about Encyro is how it automatically organizes files and documents by contact. With this, users no longer have to manually search and move files. Every Encyro account also comes with adequate storage space for shared files. Moreover, as Encyro integrates with top email service providers including Outlook, Gmail, and MS Exchange, users can send and receive files through the systems they already use.

2. Dropbox Business

Dropbox Business offers best-in-class and easy-to-use functionalities that have been helping millions of users worldwide achieve better collaboration, productivity, and overall workflow.

Dropbox Business has a simple interface that belies its extensive capabilities. The software centralizes important team files into one platform, ensuring easy access for anyone who needs these files. With Dropbox Spaces, the software also brings together local files and cloud content to improve file organization.

The platform also has plenty of features to improve security for your business. It uses a secure, distributed infrastructure to ensure that sensitive files and data are safe. For further protection, the administrators can control file visibility and users’ download capabilities.

Dropbox Business is available in 2 plans: Standard and Advanced. The Standard plan offers up to 5TB of secure storage, while the Advanced plan can give you as much space as your team needs.

3. Google Drive

Google Drive is a cloud storage service that allows you to store your files, videos, music, photos, etc. in a single location. It automatically syncs your data with all the devices linked to your account, which means they immediately receive the updates and changes that you make.

Google Drive also monitors the changes you made in the past 30 days, enabling you to go back and redo/undo the changes. The platform relies on Google search and uses popular Google features such as image recognition to browse your photos, and OCR capabilities to extract text in pictures.

4. Synology Drive

Perfect for personal or office use, Synology Drive makes your file readily available from anywhere you are. It offers ample storage capacities reaching up to hundreds of terabytes. The software also allows you to choose the right Synology NAS or hard drives for you.

The on-demand sync feature of the platform lets you save disk space and bandwidth. You will still get to see all your files in the synced folders that you have, but you can only stream them on your desktop once you open them. Also, you can choose to exclude specific subfolders and file formats, as well as put a limit on the size of your files.

Another critical feature of Synology Drive is its restore capability. The Intelliversioning algorithm that comes with the software can show you the most significant changes in your storage. This way, the system versions will not be taken up by small recent changes, and you can restore previous versions as easily as right-clicking them.

5. Filemail

Filemail is one of the best-regarded file sharing applications on the market for its end-to-end features and straightforward interface. It is compatible with any file format and type. In addition, its desktop apps for Mac and Windows use a custom transfer acceleration protocol to help you share large files as quickly and securely as possible.

Aside from the abovementioned, it also has file tracking options. This way, you get real-time updates on delivery details, including which files were opened and shared and which files were received and downloaded. It also integrates with a variety of business software so you can save and send files without leaving the platform

As one of the top file sharing software solutions today, Filemail provides some of the most stringent security protocols available. It is fully compliant with industry standards ranging from GDPR and HIPAA to SOX, FISMA, and ISO27001. Moreover, it comes equipped with options for data encryption, two-factor authentication, and password protection. This way, you can ensure that your most important files stay within the server and not in the hands of online predators.  For pricing, Filemail has a free plan for those in need of basic file sharing capabilities. However, they have paid plans ranging from $10/month to $40/month depending on the features you require.

6. Dropbox

Dropbox for SMBs offers flexible pricing plans that can be used by organizations of all sizes. It uses off-site servers for file storage and sharing. The solution allows you to automatically sync your files online and across the devices you use. Files can be managed as you do on your desktop. The software allows you to access your files on secure servers from multiple devices, including desktops, Mac, iPhone, Android, and Windows Phone.

Dropbox also has some extra features that make file sharing more efficient. You can set permissions so only people with the right credentials can view your uploaded files. The platform can also notify you of any changes made to your files.

For added convenience, the platform offers integrations with a wide variety of software, including communications software like Slack, RingCentral, and Cisco WebEx.

7. Box

Box is a file sharing service that provides secure collaboration from any device. You can use it to easily manage and share files across your company. The service is used by more than 50,000 organizations worldwide, including top brands like Pandora, Boston Scientific, Gap, Nationwide, and GE.

You can use Box to easily create, edit, and review documents with other users in real-time or on the go. The vendor uses protection measures like customer-managed encryption, activity logs, granular permissions, and mobile security to provide tight security for stored files. Plus, the service enables you to comply with e-discovery requests, data retention, and regulatory policies. It also allows for global compliance by assisting your organization in meeting regulatory and business requirements.

8. Apple iCloud

Apple iCloud is a cloud-based file-syncing and storage solution that enables users to store files in the cloud. The stored files are automatically synced to all devices in the account, including both Windows and Mac systems. The service comes with offerings such as the iCloud Photo Library and iCloud Drive, where you can keep all your files stored securely and updated everywhere. The Family Sharing feature lets you easily share photos, movies, music, and more with your family members. Find My iPhone helps you find your Apple device if you lose it.

Apple iCloud lets you make folders for your files and provides online storage for productivity suite software such as Keynote, Numbers, and Pages. Setup is easy on all devices, including PC, Mac, iPod touch, iPhone, and iPad. If you have bought a new Apple device, you can use the setup assistant for guidance. And for other devices, getting started only needs a few quick steps.

9. FileCloud

At just $10 per user per month, FileCloud allows your organization to enjoy 1 TB of cloud storage for the first 5 users and host and share documents and files for company-wide collaboration. The price plan includes an option to choose a region to host your data. If you feel more comfortable hosting your files on your servers. The price even gets better, at just $4.20 per user per month.

FileCloud’s on-premise or on the cloud file sharing service comes with a robust sync feature that you can easily configure based on a preferred schedule. File sharing extends to even remote branch offices with reduced network latency. To navigate large volumes of data, FileCloud comes with a powerful search engine that allows for file content search.

FileCloud recognizes businesses’ need to present themselves to the world the way they want. To that effect, it allows full white label customization, gives you an option to run your own domain, along with multiple language support.

FileCloud applies one of the most robust file security measures around, so you need not worry about prying eyes running away with your information assets. Aside from antivirus scans and ransomware protection, you also get two-factor authentication, pattern search, and single sign-on, along with support for FINRA, HIPAA, and other security protocols.

10. Filecamp

Users of the Filecamp cloud-based DAM platform can access, share, and work together on files from any device at any time. It is a useful productivity tool because it saves time when performing operations like searching for files, updating file versions, controlling security and access, and other tasks. Any business, but especially those in the creative industries, can benefit greatly from this technological investment.

Creating folders, uploading and downloading files in the formats of your choice, and granting access permissions on particular files on your system are all made simple with Filecamp. Modern security features on the platform enable your team to focus on important projects minus the worries of security breaches.

Filecamp

Try out Filecamp with their free trial

Additionally, this program enables DAM platform customization. It comes with a ton of white labeling tools, so you can change logos, images, and color schemes to highlight your brand. Additionally, collaboration is swift since you can send documents to coworkers or clients for online collaboration and proofreading. Easily manage file access with a few mouse clicks.

Three SMB and enterprise pricing plans for Filecamp are available, starting at $29 per month. Its entry-level plan, which is available for unlimited users, comes with 10GB of storage, unmetered bandwidth, and personalized branding.

Go for a Free Trial Before You Take the Final Plunge

These 10 file-sharing solutions should give you a good idea of which one to use for your business. But, as you have seen, not all of them are simply file-sharing platforms. Our top pick, Encyro, is an end-to-end file sharing software that supports all the processes associated with distributing and storing documents. You can easily check out what we mean when you sign up for a Encyro free trial.

However, if you really just want a standalone platform for managing documents. You can check out our analysis of the best document management software tools out there.

But nothing really beats the actual use of the application, so if you could contact these vendors and manage to arrange a live demo or free trial, you get a chance to get a better feel of how an application should work for your business.

You may also opt to work with the vendor on how to hurdle the issue, to make everything just right for a compelling presentation to the purchasing board.

Key Insights

• Digital Transformation Accelerated by Pandemic: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the necessity for cloud-based file sharing systems as businesses transitioned to remote work.
• Security Concerns: Security remains a major concern with file-sharing services, with data breaches costing US businesses millions annually.
• Top File Sharing Solutions: The article provides a detailed analysis of the top 10 file-sharing software, including Encyro, Dropbox Business, Google Drive, Synology Drive, Filemail, Dropbox, Box, Apple iCloud, FileCloud, and Filecamp.
• Feature Comparison: Each software offers unique features such as multi-layer encryption (Encyro), extensive storage options (Dropbox Business), and powerful search capabilities (FileCloud).
• Customization and Integration: Many platforms, like Filecamp, offer extensive customization and integration options to meet diverse business needs.
• Free Trials and Demos: Trying out free trials or arranging live demos is recommended to assess how well a file-sharing solution fits specific business requirements.

FAQ

1. What should I consider when choosing a file-sharing software?

When selecting a file-sharing software, consider factors such as security features (encryption, two-factor authentication), ease of use, storage capacity, integration with existing tools, and customer support.

2. Why is security important in file-sharing services?

Security is crucial because data breaches can be costly and damaging to a business. Ensuring that the file-sharing service has robust security measures like encryption, two-factor authentication, and compliance with industry standards can protect sensitive information.

3. Are there any free file-sharing software options?

Yes, some file-sharing software, such as Filemail, offer free plans with basic features. However, for more advanced features and greater storage capacity, paid plans are typically required.

4. How does Encyro enhance file security?

Encyro enhances file security through multi-layer enterprise-grade encryption, automated encryption technology, and secure file transfer without the need for client portals or shared folders.

5. Can I integrate file-sharing software with other business tools?

Yes, many file-sharing platforms offer integrations with popular business tools. For example, Dropbox integrates with Slack, RingCentral, and Cisco WebEx, while Google Drive syncs with various Google services.

6. What are the benefits of using cloud-based file-sharing services?

Cloud-based file-sharing services offer several benefits, including easy access to files from any location, automatic syncing across devices, enhanced collaboration, and reduced reliance on on-premise infrastructure.

7. How do I ensure the file-sharing software fits my business needs?

To ensure the software fits your business needs, take advantage of free trials or live demos. This allows you to test the software’s features and usability before making a final decision.

8. What is the role of customization in file-sharing software?

Customization allows businesses to tailor the software to their specific needs, such as branding, setting access permissions, and integrating with other tools. This enhances user experience and ensures the software aligns with business processes.

9. How do file-sharing services support remote work?

File-sharing services support remote work by enabling employees to access, share, and collaborate on files from any location with an internet connection. This facilitates seamless workflow and communication within distributed teams.

10. What are some of the most common file-sharing software used by businesses?

Some of the most common file-sharing software used by businesses include Dropbox Business, Google Drive, Box, and Apple iCloud. Each offers unique features to support collaboration and file management.

By Stephanie Seymour

Stephanie Seymour is a senior business analyst and one of the crucial members of the FinancesOnline research team. She is a leading expert in the field of business intelligence and data science. She specializes in visual data discovery, cloud-based BI solutions, and big data analytics. She’s fascinated by how companies dealing with big data are increasingly embracing cloud business intelligence. In her software reviews, she always focuses on the aspects that let users share analytics and enhance findings with context.