Files keep getting bigger, disk space larger, and computers smaller! So, with this change, why can’t I email my large files? As technology changes and the average Internet speeds get faster, we are transferring more data than ever!

Many companies are faced with the challenge of file transfer. They need large files from their customers such as Photoshop Drawings, CAD Drawings, Videos, and Photographs, but can’t receive them through email. Most email providers limit the size of a file emailed, and most programs such as Microsoft Outlook limits the size of the file it will download.

There are many options that businesses use to make file transfer communications easier for them and their clients. Some solutions require more training or programs than others, and some can have a cost associated with them. Below I have outlined a few options you can look at to make your file management easier.

ZIP:
You can compress some of the files you send by simply selecting the files/folders and right click to send to Compressed (zipped) Folder. You can then name your folder. This will minimize the size of the files allowing you to email more.

FTP:
Sometimes files are just too big to email. File Transfer Protocol is the way larger files were meant to be transmitted over the Internet. This is a service you already have or can obtain from your hosting provider. It does require an FTP program, such as FileZilla. It is critical that you do not give out your website FTP account. You will want to set up a special FTP site for transferring files with clients or internally. Just give your hosting provider a call, and they can help you set up a cool name like files.yourdomain.com and set up the different users. Some of the ways to organize your users is to set up:

• Web Users: This allows a unique username and password to only access the folder(s) within their user permission, protecting other files in your system. Web Users can both upload and download into their folders. Learn More
• Protected Directories: This allows you to send a user to a web page to download files that is are password protected. You can upload a file and then protect it, so when a user goes to that link, they have to know the username and password to download the file. Learn More

File Management Systems:
When FTP and extra programs are just too much, you can use a File Management System. These are user friendly web pages that can offer security, organization and ease of use. It is as easy as adding an attachment or saving a file on your machine. There is no special software, no fancy instructions. Just set it up and start using it. The File Management System can offer security, different user permissions, email notifications, and more! Learn More