Cloud File Sync and Sharing: Encryption Security Options Explained

Within the very crowded market for cloud-based file sync and sharing services, the encryption buzz s growing louder. Some upstarts say they now offer better or more intuitive security than base consumer offerings like Box and Dropbox. Plus, executives representing channel-centric offerings like Autotask File Sync and Sharing and eFolder Anchor have some strong opinions about proper security for VARs, MSPs and their SMB customers.

Among the latest chatter: Message encryption service Keybase has launched a private beta of a new file sharing system that lets you upload files to the cloud and automatically encrypt as well as sign them with your PGP key, notes The Next Web.

It sounds promising but it isn't the same as traditional file sync and sharing. As The Next Web puts it, "You’ll need a PGP key to secure your identity and there’s no option to sync files continuously from your desktop or mobile devices. That means it’s more suited to people who need a way to securely share files rather than those who simply want to free up space on their gadgets."

Meanwhile, Box has launched Box KeySafe -- an encryption offering for SMB customers that don't want to deal with the company's more complex Enterprise Key Management option. The enterprise approach requires a tricky encryption key management system on Amazon Web Services. Box KeySafe eliminates that complexity for SMBs, Box claims. And yes, rival Dropbox has some encryption know-how as well.

Also of note: Numerous encryption and security solutions now support file sync and sharing services. Names to know include BoxCrytor, Cloud Fogger, nCrypted Cloud, Sookasa and Viivo.

Channel Partner Options

Amid all those options, I still recommend that VARs and MSPs seek out pure channel alternatives. I'm not in a position to "endorse" specific platforms since I haven't done any hands-on comparison testing. But here's my general feeling: While Box and Dropbox have partner programs, their focus on the SMB channel sometimes wanders. In stark contrast, options like Autotask File Sync and Sharing and eFolder Anchor are channel-obsessed.

I certainly think we'll see a file sync and sharing market shakeout. There are simply too many options for partners and customers to consider. But the risks of an implosion are relatively low for partners that work with Autotask and eFolder. Both companies are profitable and in growth mode.

Autotask, eFolder Weigh In

When Keybase announced its end-to-end encryption offering last week, I reached out to Autotask and eFolder, seeking a better understanding of their respective encryption strategies. Their responses:

From Pat Burns, VP of product management:

And from Pierre Tapia, VP of product, eFolder:

And there you have it. Plenty of options. And lots of security considerations. If I overlooked a channel-obsessed file sync and sharing solution please let me know.