Files Too Big For Email

I have a lot of clients that need to send me files. It sometimes is a chore to teach them how to use FTP because they first have to download an FTP client, get it configured properly and then upload to the right folder. Not to mention that I have to set up the FTP account on my server so their files don't get mixed up with other clients' files.

WinXP made it pretty easy, but as people are moving to Mac or Vista, FTP isn't as easy as it used to be. So, I decided to checkout a few online storage locations. There are a number of free services out there. I think that box.net is really the best option.

Here is how you do it.

They offer a few plans. The basic plan, the lite version, provides 1GB of space online for free. You can get more space for a monthly fee. With the lite version, the maximum file size is only 10MB. When you sign up for the lite version, you have the option to upgrade to the next level (giving you 5GB of space and 1GB max files size) for 14 days for free. The problem is that you have to provide credit card information and they will bill you at the end of the trial if you don't cancel it.

box.net is designed for multiple people to have access to your files. It allows you to organize your files into folders and provides an opportunity to keep the files private or invite people to have access to them. You can multiple files and the only reason you would need to install anything is if you want to use the drag and drop feature. Even then, it sets it all up for you automatically.

The best feature, I think, is they have some add-ons that enhance the user experience.

You can add on a lot more like a GMail connector and an eFax connector.

If you have files smaller than 10MB to share, this is a great way to share files. If you have to share files larger than 10MB, you might consider it worth it to pay the $8 per month. But, you can also buy large file credits. If you have only the occasional file that is larger than 10MB, you should consider buying the credit. Then, you can get the free service, but still upload an occasional large file.

Let me know if you have found other files services out there that work for you.