Collaboration Tools Like Box.com vs. MFT: What Do You Really Need?

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Collaboration tools like Box.com and managed file transfer (MFT) tools like GoAnywhere MFT, are not the same. Both, however, have unique advantages, depending on your organization’s requirements around data.

Box is a cloud-based tool for organizational teams to collaborate, manage, and store content. GoAnywhere MFT is a secure managed file transfer solution used by organizations to secure, automate, and centralize the entire file transfer methods into one product.

Functional Differences Between Box and GoAnywhere

At first glance Box and GoAnywhere function similarly – they both send files to intended destinations; both offer tools to manage the content of those files; both offer file security; and both work in the cloud. They do, however, differ in their primary purpose – collaboration and storage for Box and file transfer security and automation for GoAnywhere.

Many MFT solutions also offer collaboration as part of their tool set, but that is not the overarching reason most organizations select this tool for file sharing. Enterprises that use secure file transfer benefit from the centralization, control, and transparency of a comprehensive solution designed expressly for file transfers – secure collaboration features are an added bonus.

When IT teams clearly identify their organization’s needs around content or file management, the differences between solutions becomes clearer.

Collaboration

Collaboration is the basis and forte of Box. The product’s core functions focus on document management and document sharing. This cloud-based tool enables users to live-edit documents from various devices, integrate with popular third-party tools and applications, and offers file storage solutions. Other collaboration highlights include: 

• Version control
• Synchronization
• Management of access, downloads, and permissions
• Information rights management

Some managed file transfer solutions offer a level of collaboration that can meet those needs, as well as the need for robust file security, as this case study details.

GoAnywhere offers enterprise file synch and sharing (EFSS) collaboration for large, ad hoc, and batch files. The tool’s GoDrive module, an alternative to cloud-based sharing services, enables advanced collaboration features including file revision tracking and commenting, media viewing and synchronization with Windows, Mac, and mobile devices. Additional collaboration highlights include:

• On-premises or cloud collaboration
• Secure Folders, Mail, and Forms
• Automation: Automated workflows eliminates need for custom scripting and reduces the risks of human error
• Server flexibility: Allows customers, trading partners, and employees to exchange files securely with extensive management controls and audit log reporting. Servers supported include AS2/3/4, FTP, FTPS, Azure FTPS, Linux FTPS, SFTP, GoFast for accelerated file transfers, HTTPS, and PeSIT.
• Strong encryption protocols: AS2, AS3, or AS4, Open PGP, ZIP with AES, SFTP, FTPS, PeSIT, or HTTPs gives organizations flexibility in working with trading partners in how to secure files moving in and out of the network.
• Scalability and availability: As businesses grow and change, file transfer bandwidth can grow as well. GoAnywhere allows users to add new modules and features, expand the userbase, and ensure uptime with high-availability and clustering.

File Transfer Security

GoAnywhere secures files at rest and in motion and supports the secure file transfer industry’s strongest encryption protocols for flexibility in exchanging files with trading partners. An integrated key management system allows administrators to create and store certificates, SSH keys, and Open PGP keys, which can be restricted to only authorized users.

GoAnywhere’s DMZ secure gateway allows files to be shared without ever being stored in the DMZ or having to open inbound ports. An MFT solution utilizing a secure gateway moves file sharing from the DMZ into the private network and includes forward and reverse proxy services.

Box also offers file transfer security. It is FIPS 140-2 certified and encrypts each file with AES 256-bit encryption at rest and in transit. The tool also gives admins control of encryption keys. In addition to user authentication with SSO and MFA support, Box offers permission roles, device trust, and application controls.

Related Reading: Comparing the Top File Transfer Protocols

Compliance

As required by many industries, organizations must make auditing and reporting of all file transfer activities available. Both Box and GoAnywhere offer auditing and reporting functionality, a critical asset if compliance requirements apply to your organization.

Do You Need to Meet Common Criteria or Federal Purchasing Requirements?

Software solutions that have undergone extensive security assessments to be Common Criteria certified offer industries, such as the federal government, extra assurance for security of the solution.  GoAnywhere MFT is the only Managed File Transfer solution that has met the stringent criteria and is listed on the NIAP Product Compliant List. This makes this comprehensive file transfer solution available for National Security System (NSS) Procurement per the Committee on National Security Systems Policy #11.

The security protocols in GoAnywhere also can help meet other stringent industry compliance standards for PCI DSS, GDPR, HIPAA, and others. When evaluating solutions for transferring files, remember to check for applicable certifications and partnerships.

Collaboration or File Transfer Solution Considerations

Do you need to primarily collaborate, or do you need to ensure all the files going into and out of your network are exchanged securely, meet compliance requirements, and automate and streamline your file transfer process? Your organization’s unique cybersecurity and data protection needs can drive towards collaboration- or secure file transfer-centric solutions.