Cloud Computing and SFTP

Using cloud computing for SFTP can give a much wider range of functionality and benefits. It can also increase connectivity and allow for a greater set of connections. So what are these benefits and how can you use cloud computing and SFTP together? 

What is the cloud?

The cloud is basically a range of data centers with services and infrastructure, often geographically diverse, redundant, and accessible from anywhere. Due to this, it can improve performance, service up-time, scale as needed, and best of all, aid with the security of data.

Some common cloud providers are Amazon, Azure, and Google Cloud Platform. Less common cloud providers that still have widespread use are Digital Ocean and Vultr. Some cloud providers deal only with compute, whereas others only deal with storage such as Wasabi or Backblaze B2.

Secure File Transfer (SFTP)

Many businesses, especially those in healthcare and finance, rely on SFTP to securely transfer files. SFTP is based on a client and server relationship. Uploading files via SFTP sends those files to a file transfer server. These servers are usually hosted locally and behind a firewall. Often, SFTP is run on an old file server that has been running for years and only one person knows it exists.

The Cloud and SFTP

How do you combine the cloud with SFTP? By using hosted SFTP with web access. As a file-sharing and transfer solution, Cloud SFTP offers reliable and high-performing SFTP transfers and secure file storage in cloud storage (whether it be SharePoint, Dropbox, or an object storage bucket).

Plus, you get the modern benefits of web-based file and user management. Additionally, you get remote file access via any web browser on your computer or mobile device without the need for VPNs. This is all due to the SFTP server being hosted across global regions so that it is closer to you and your clients.

Cloud SFTP & Security

Traditional FTP and servers can have security drawbacks. Using Cloud SFTP adds layers of encryption to enhance your data security during file transfer and can scale to ensure maximum uptime and availability.

In the case of Couchdrop Cloud SFTP, data is not stored in transit and uses SSH and HTTPS to securely transfer data in transit. Data at rest is handled by yourself so that you know it is secure regardless of where you choose to store it. It also keeps you storage agnostic and if you decide to change your storage backend, Couchdrop can change with you.

How can you use Cloud SFTP?

There are many use cases for Cloud SFTP/FTP, from secure file sharing, to backing up applications and automating a file journey.

1. Cloud file sharing with SFTP access.

Use the internet to send and share files with your coworkers, business associates, clients, and friends. Check upload status, file size, and receive notifications. All this and more are easily accessible online including large files uploaded via SFTP.

2. Backing up applications

A lot of applications support SFTP to backup to the cloud. An example of this is 3CX which natively does not support cloud storage. You can back up configuration, data, or anything in between to cloud storage, basically modernizing your backup methods.

3. Programmatic SFTP

Programmatic SFTP allows you to create users automatically based on API calls, automatically pick up a file that has been received and transform it, or send it somewhere else. Couchdrop’s API and webhooks ensure you have full control and the ability to streamline your file transfer or manipulation process.

Try Couchdrop as a Cloud SFTP solution

Couchdrop’s Cloud SFTP is more of a virtual file system or a tool for accessing and managing all of your virtual documents and data regardless of the storage location.

With Couchdrop, you can connect any storage provider whether it’s a file server, SharePoint, Google Drive, or a storage bucket such as Wasabi or Amazon S3. This provides you complete control of your data at rest and the ability to access it from anywhere. Additionally, if you are looking to automate your SFTP workflows, with Couchdrop you can harness its webhooks and API to automate and streamline your file transfer workflows.

You can try Couchdrop for free for 14 days with no credit card required. Sign up now to get started.