One of the biggest things to consider when you are looking to use secure file transfer is the amount of FTP server space that is allocated to each user account. Many times services will offer a basic startup package that greatly limits how much space each user is allowed. These limits are definitely understandable, but not always the most flexible. For experienced users, a free FTP service can offer a great deal of flexibility without having to spend a dime. Security is often the most limiting factor when it comes time to investigate these types of services, and most of these offers aren’t secure.

I have been using these types of free services for the last five years. It has been an incredible benefit as I’m starting to finish up my dissertation. I’m able to maintain multiple copies of my documents and research, each draft of my dissertation, and I can access all that information from anywhere in the world. I can’t imagine any type of student not using this type of service for their homework and team collaborations. I have been able to submit my documents to a variety of proof readers; they can edit or mark up the documents from anywhere, and upload the corrections when they are done. I don’t think I could have made it through grad school without it!

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