File sharing apps help users to share and receive multiple files from outside computers through the internet or a local network. The software solution can be used to share various kinds of files, such as documents, videos, and images. They are mostly used to download media files from the internet, and in-office networks to share project documents. And because remote work is becoming the new normal in most workplaces, file sharing software has become among the must-have office tools today.
Common types of storage, transmission, and distribution include the use of distributed peer-to-peer networking, centralized servers on computer networks, online-based hyperlinked documents, and manual sharing of transportable media. This article can help you choose the best file-sharing system for your organization as it offers an overview of the best file-sharing software systems as selected by our review team.
What are the 15 best file sharing software systems?
Propelled by the massive shift to remote work, experts predict that the worldwide file-sharing software market will achieve a 14.6% CAGR in terms of revenue growth. As such, the market is expected to increase from $ 2.85 billion in 2019 to $4.92 billion by 2025.
The huge importance of these tools had never been so apparent as it is nowadays. Remote work trends indicate that today’s digital workers mainly use digital collaboration tools like file sharing apps to do their jobs. In fact, one study found that 70% of knowledge workers employ cloud file sharing and storage tools for their day-to-day activities.
File sharing stats in the workplace
of employees use a personal email to transfer documents and data: 54%
of employees use a personal email to transfer documents and data
54%of companies have policies for sending sensitive files: 48%
of companies have policies for sending sensitive files
48%of IT pros say their organizations know how much regulated data is on endpoint devices: 19%
of IT pros say their organizations know how much regulated data is on endpoint devices
19%of employees share passwords with coworkers: 18%
of employees share passwords with coworkers
18%of an organization's file sharing permissions are set to public: 2.6%
of an organization's file sharing permissions are set to public
2.6%Source: Insights for Professionals 2018
Designed byEmployees exchange files because document-based collaboration is a core element of the larger business systems designed to allow virtual teams to sustain process continuity, add value, and communicate 24/7. Simply put, employee productivity is primarily driven and sustained by document workflows.
However, file-sharing platforms can also be the culprit behind data breaches. One study found that 58% of businesses have 100,000 folders that any employee can readily access. As such, choose only file-sharing tools with robust security capabilities, among a host of other key features.
Based on our expert reviews, here are the 15 best file sharing software systems that you must have.
1. Encyro
Email encryption, e-signature gathering, and secure file sharing are all made possible by Encyro, an application that serves multiple purposes. Businesses may send emails to anyone without having to worry about the security of attachments or the safety of customer data when they use this application. There are 16 levels of protection built into the program, which includes automatic encryption.
Additionally, Encyro provides a variety of capabilities to help organizations better organize their files. You don’t have to waste time manually transferring and searching for files thanks to the platform. Additionally, Encyro is perfect for companies in industries that require compliance with standards and guidelines when it comes to file transfers and management. The service is also fully compliant with various data security guidelines such as GDPR, HIPAA, PCI-DSS, SOX, Leach Bliley (GLB) Act, IRS Pub. 4557, and more.
Detailed Encyro Review
2. Synology Drive
Synology Drive is a private cloud storage platform that offers ample storage capacities, reaching up to hundreds of terabytes. It allows you to access all your data stored in team folders or your personal space. The platform is compatible with web browsers and mobile devices, so you can always access your files even on the go.
Detailed Synology Drive Review
The software is perfect for both personal and business use. Synology Office offers the chance to collaborate with your colleagues, as it allows you to take turns in editing a file. It enables you and your team to work on the same slides, documents, or spreadsheets, speeding up the completion of your tasks. Also, Synology Drive automates cross-office file sharing by keeping in sync selected folders stored in different Synology NAS.
3. Dropbox Business
Dropbox Business is a file sharing service offered by Dropbox targeted at companies and enterprises. The business edition of Dropbox has the simplicity and features of the individual-usage version, and the pricing is affordable too. For these reasons, Dropbox Business has become a favorite file sharing tool among businesses.
Detailed Dropbox Business Review
You can use the service to securely share and sync your files and collaborate with your team members. Users get lots of space to store their files, advanced security features, and reliable live support. The product integrates seamlessly with a range of business systems, which allows you to maintain complete control over company info and user activity. For these reasons, Dropbox Business is used by more than 150,000 companies, including top brands like National Geographic, New Corp, Hyatt, Macmillan, and Yahoo. Read our full review of Dropbox Business for more information.
4. 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 you make.
Detailed Google Drive Review
Why is Google Drive in our list of top file sharing software systems? One of the reasons is it 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 discover text in pictures. Read our detailed review of Google Drive for more information.
5. Filemail
If you need to transmit a huge file fast and for free, Filemail is the best option. Users may send huge files by email or a link using the file sharing system. Unlimited downloads, recipients, and bandwidth are available as core functionalities. Because of this, you can rest assured your file will arrive in the same quality as when you submitted it. This service employs end-to-end data encryption, two-factor authentication, password protection, and virus screening to securely exchange files over the internet.
It also has features that allow users to keep track of shared files. Users may monitor the delivery of their files and obtain real-time updates on their status, such as which recipients have viewed the files as well as when and where these items have been downloaded. Filemail comes with a tool that lets you embed an uploader on your website. Users may download files without having to leave your website thanks to this functionality.
Detailed Filemail Review
6. Egnyte
Egnyte is a recognized service that enables fast, secure, and reliable file sharing software that meets the requirements of many top companies around the world. The vendor offers a range of useful features and flexible pricing packages that can be used by enterprises to boost their collaboration and store and share their corporate data safely in the cloud.
Detailed Egnyte Review
Egnyte allows users to access data from anywhere as it can function smoothly on all widely used devices. It integrates seamlessly with a range of business systems to enable users to easily extract as well as export data. The interface is user-friendly, and you can choose between on-premise deployment or SaaS, depending on your requirements. For more details, read our comprehensive Egnyte review.
7. Box
Box is a file-sharing service that helps in 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.
Detailed Box Review
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 good security for stored files. Plus, the service enables you to comply with e-discovery requests, data retention policies, and regulatory policies. It also allows global compliance by assisting your organization in meeting regulatory and business requirements. Read our complete Box review for more details.
8. SharePoint
SharePoint is a Microsoft-hosted cloud service that enables users to store, access, share, and manage documents from all devices. The service unites traditionally separate applications such as workflow management, web content, intranet, extranet, personal cloud, business intelligence, enterprise social networking, and content management.
Detailed SharePoint Review
SharePoint enables browser-based document management and collaboration to streamline access to relevant data. The platform can also be used as an information portal that can be configured to operate high-quality websites. It was initially launched in 2013 to serve Office 365’s distribution purposes but has since developed as a role model cloud software that is used by many third-party vendors. For more information on SharePoint, read our detailed review.
9. 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 machines running on Windows and Mac. 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. Another great feature is Find My iPhone, which helps you find your Apple device if you lose it.
Detailed Apple iCloud Review
Apple iCloud allows you to make folders for your files and provides online storage for Apple’s productivity apps 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. Read our comprehensive Apple iCloud review for more information.
10. Dropbox
Our review team has selected Dropbox as one of the top products in the category for its robust features, main functionalities, collaboration tools, and other elements. The vendor offers flexible pricing plans that can be used by organizations of all sizes.
Detailed Dropbox Review
Dropbox 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 would on your desktop. The software allows you to access your files on secure servers from multiple devices such as desktops, Mac, iPhone, Android, and Windows Phone. More than 500 million users around the world have signed up to use Dropbox’s services. For more information about this service, you can read our complete review of Dropbox.
11. ShareFile
Citrix’s ShareFile is an all-in-one, secure, and streamlined file transfer application that is suitable for businesses of any size and in any industry. Our review team was impressed with its main features, quality of customer support, and other elements and gave it high marks. The vendor offers a convenient free trial that lets you try out the product free of charge. ShareFile is designed for both individual and corporate use. It provides a range of advanced and secure sharing features as well as affordable payment packages. The interface is simple and user-friendly, which allows even novices and lay users to share files easily.
Detailed ShareFile Review
ShareFile is more than a simple file sharing service. The app is famous for its robust third-party integrations and flexibility. Data sharing is secure as the platform uses a range of sophisticated measures, including SSL/TLS 256-bit encryption, granular permissions, and multi-level access authentication, to ensure your corporate data is safe from hackers. You can internally monitor your document archive and keep it secure with password protection. The extended customization enables you to personally manage security settings and access.
12. SugarSync
SugarSync is a user-friendly file sharing, cloud storage, and online backup solution that can be used to sync files, music, and photos from any device. The service also offers collaboration tools to help companies work efficiently on team projects, show links to documents via the web, and share view-only files.
Detailed SugarSync Review
SugarSync makes it easy for users to sync and share only a few folders or entire libraries across multiple devices. The folders and files are backed up in real-time, enabling all devices linked to the account to show recent changes and updates. The service is compatible with multiple computing systems, including Mac, PC, iOS, and Android devices. You can start working on a document on your office computer and finish it at home on your iPad. For more information on SugarSync, read our full review.
13. OneDrive For Business
OneDrive For Business is a crucial component of the Office 365 or SharePoint server. It offers a secure cloud-based hub where users can store, sync, and share their business documents, materials, and other files. The service is cloud-based, which gives users great flexibility and mobility to enable them to work, update, and collaborate anywhere, anytime.
Detailed OneDrive For Business Review
OneDrive For Business protects stored files and documents with industry-grade security protocols and gives management full control over authorizations and permissions as to how much storage space can be allotted to each user, who can view the files, and who they can share their files with. Additionally, OneDrive for Business is well integrated and flexibly priced. The fee you need to pay depends on the features you want to use, and the scale of your business. Read our full review of OneDrive For Business for more info.
14. WeTransfer
WeTransfer offers a simple way for online file transfer, and you don’t even need to register to use the service’s free version. The system is better than most other file sharing services as you can send large files of up to 2 GB using the free version, and up to 20 GB using the paid Plus package.
Detailed WeTransfer Review
WeTransfer Plus allows you to move extensive photo collections, full HD videos, and other big files. Users can transfer the whole 20 GB in one go, and keep their documents available for as long as they want. The Plus package also allows customization, and you can present downloads with custom URLs and backgrounds. Another great feature is you can add up to three backgrounds and customize your emails as per your needs. For more details, read our complete WeTransfer review.
15. LeapFile
LeapFile is a sophisticated and secure file transfer service that removes common sharing issues such as IT overhead, size limitations, and compromised security. LeapFile is a locally installed app that utilizes plugins to connect to your other apps and extract information. It shares them readily with a single right-click function and a drag-and-drop feature. You can also use it as a web client without needing to download anything.
Detailed LeapFile Review
A great reason to select LeapFile is the moderate and affordable pricing that can suit the budgets of even startups and small businesses. Plus, the service integrates smoothly with popular file exchange apps, including Groupwise, Thunderbird, Outlook, and Microsoft Office. All integrations function smoothly, and you don’t need constant updates to deal with the latest versions of these applications. However, keep in mind that you need to download a specific plugin to use them. Read our comprehensive LeapFile review for more info.
Try Out The Software at No Cost
We hope this list helped you in choosing which file-sharing platform to use. If you want a more personal investigation of the above software solutions, you can try reaching out to the vendor and request a free trial or demo. After all, actual use of the application can help you get a feel of the system and see if it’s right for you. In this case, we highly recommend Encyro, the leading file-sharing platform, which offers a vast storage capacity perfect for personal or office use.
Key Insights
- Importance of File Sharing Apps: File sharing apps are essential for facilitating the sharing and receiving of various file types, such as documents, videos, and images, over the internet or local networks. They are particularly vital in remote work environments, enhancing productivity and collaboration.
- Market Growth: The file-sharing software market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 14.6%, increasing from $2.85 billion in 2019 to $4.92 billion by 2025. This growth is driven by the rising trend of remote work and the need for efficient digital collaboration tools.
- Usage Statistics: Approximately 70% of knowledge workers use cloud file sharing and storage tools daily. However, security remains a concern, with significant percentages of companies lacking adequate policies and controls over sensitive file sharing.
- Security Concerns: File-sharing platforms can pose security risks, with many businesses having thousands of folders accessible by any employee. Robust security features in file-sharing tools are crucial to prevent data breaches.
- Top Solutions: The article reviews 15 top file sharing solutions, highlighting their unique features, security measures, and usability for both personal and business needs. Notable mentions include Encyro, Synology Drive, Dropbox Business, Google Drive, and Egnyte, among others.
FAQ
- Why is file sharing software important for businesses?
File sharing software is crucial for businesses as it facilitates seamless sharing and receiving of various file types, enhances collaboration among team members, and supports remote work by enabling access to files from any location. - What are the security concerns associated with file sharing apps?
Security concerns with file sharing apps include the risk of data breaches, unauthorized access to sensitive files, and insufficient security measures. It is essential to choose tools with robust encryption, multi-level access controls, and compliance with data protection regulations. - How does remote work impact the demand for file sharing software?
Remote work significantly increases the demand for file sharing software as employees need efficient tools to collaborate, share documents, and maintain productivity while working from different locations. - What features should I look for in a file sharing solution?
Key features to look for in a file sharing solution include ease of use, robust security measures (encryption, access controls), large storage capacity, integration with other business tools, real-time collaboration capabilities, and reliable customer support. - Are there any free file sharing solutions available?
Yes, there are free file sharing solutions available, such as the basic versions of Dropbox, Google Drive, and WeTransfer. These free versions typically offer limited storage and basic features, with options to upgrade for additional functionalities and storage capacity. - How can file sharing apps improve productivity in the workplace?
File sharing apps improve productivity by enabling quick and easy access to files, facilitating real-time collaboration, reducing the need for physical document transfers, and allowing employees to work from anywhere with internet access. - What are some of the best file sharing solutions for businesses?
Some of the best file sharing solutions for businesses include Encyro, Synology Drive, Dropbox Business, Google Drive, Egnyte, Box, SharePoint, and OneDrive for Business. These platforms offer robust security, ample storage, and integration with other business tools. - Can file sharing apps integrate with other business software?
Yes, many file sharing apps integrate seamlessly with other business software such as productivity tools (Google Workspace, Microsoft Office), project management platforms, CRM systems, and more, enhancing overall business workflows. - How do file sharing solutions ensure data security?
File sharing solutions ensure data security through measures such as encryption (both in transit and at rest), multi-factor authentication, access controls, secure links, password protection, and compliance with data protection regulations like GDPR and HIPAA. - What are the benefits of using cloud-based file sharing solutions?
Cloud-based file sharing solutions offer benefits such as remote access to files from any device, automatic syncing and updating of documents, scalable storage options, reduced need for physical storage infrastructure, and enhanced collaboration capabilities.
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