Sending large 16 bit files

[Randal32]

Recently I have been delivering my files to clients via my ftp server.

I would prefer to use a service that would provide faster download and faster upload.

Does anybody use anything like DropSend or a service that can provide this?  It would be ideal for something to integrate into my website.

Thanks,

Randal

[PeterDendrinos]

Randal,

I see that this has gone unanswered, so i thought i would give it a go. The first issues that come to mind are speed of file transfer and security. Not necessarly in that order. FTP has been the primary method of transfer for largre files for some time. It allows you to easly and cheeply get info to your clients from your computer. the obvious or perhaps not so obvious issue is that you have a port open to hacking. Determining the best method of securing the ftp port will not be that difficult however, but is dependent on your implementation.

The other issue involved here is the pipe you are using. you will want something like a broadband connection, with a understanding of what the upload speeds are. typically services are sold split, one capability for download, one for upload. call your provider.

Let me again say that the primary concern is security, and isolating the ftp box (computer) from the rest of what you do. Personally i would have a stand alone box dedicated to ftp. I would only put the files on there the client needs. I have seen far too many hack jobs to start feeling comfortable with computers and the net.

Pete

Recently I have been delivering my files to clients via my ftp server.

I would prefer to use a service that would provide faster download and faster upload.

Does anybody use anything like DropSend or a service that can provide this?  It would be ideal for something to integrate into my website.

Thanks,

Randal
[a href=\"index.php?act=findpost&pid=129575\"][{POST_SNAPBACK}][/a]

[bradleygibson]

A faster net connection is probably going to make the biggest difference.

If your FTP server is local (ie. it is a computer in your house), then the transfer to your clients is most likely being limited by your upload bandwidth (your "to the internet" connection speed).

You have a couple of options--go broadband if you aren't already (DSL or CableModem) will be faster than dialup; sign up for SDSL or business service on your cablemodem to get faster upload speeds (these are expensive, though).  You can also go with a fiber connection, if you can get it.  Google Verizon's FiOS if you're in the US to see if it's available in your area.  Fiber is also expensive, but blazingly fast.

If you are (or know someone who is) computer savvy, getting a webspace account and uploading your content to there will allow your clients to download it from the web, rather than from your local FTP server.  This will be much faster for them (although obviously they can't start downloading until after you've uploaded the file--this will still be limited by your upload connection speed).

You'll still be able to use FTP if that is working for you and your clients.

I use HostMonster.com; they are very cheap, give generous web space and monthy transfer limits and have been very reliable for me.

And for full disclosure, I have no affiliation with any of the aforementioned companies and/or technologies.

Hope that helps,
Brad

[nicolaasdb]

depending on the size of the job..I either overnite DVD's (anything under 15GB) or a Hard drive....but if we are talking a 6 page layout I FTP them.

[eronald]

I use the free service at http://www.yousendit.com and give out the link if multiple recipients are required.

Edmund

[MikeMike]

I have to second YouSendIt.com, I'v used it a bunch and you could send gigabytes of data if you need to

[pss]

i have used yousendit.com as well, but have had some problems with them....with the free account....i now have a ftp section on my website, which works great, clients love it.....most clients have their own ftp sites, but usually there are problems with access, passwords, space available,....probably because a whole office shares the ftp and it gets quite chaotic.....
.mac can be a very simple and inexpensive solution....
anything really big is obviously DVD....i used to do HDs, but that was a pain as well (USB, FW, cables,.....) i have heard of someone providing the files on an iPod....for the client to keep....nice touch if the budget allows....
BlueRay discs should be the answer to most huge jobs in the near future.....